Take a look at this piece by Sean Carrie in today's National Post. Sean looks at the story of the creation of Calgary Opera and the Banff Centre's Frobisher, making its world premiere on January 27th. Here are a couple of great quotes that speak to what we're starting to think is Calgary's authentic story:

Innovation has been the keyword in local theatre for decades; Calgary Opera general director Bob McPhee points to companies like One Yellow Rabbit and Alberta Theatre Projects, which hosts an annual festival of new Canadian plays.

...

McPhee and the Johns agree that Calgary itself will contribute a critical role in the opera's success. There is something in the water, Murrell contends, that makes the city uniquely conducive to the airing of new works. "Sometimes we talk about the downside of the entrepreneurial spirit in Alberta, and especially in Calgary," the Texas-born dramatist says. "But there's definitely an upside. I think there is something in the atmosphere of this city and this province that says, 'OK, well you're taking a big chance here ? that's interesting'; if it's new they're almost automatically invested in it."

So... all the best to John and John and Bob and everyone at Calgary Opera as they bravely take contemporary Canadian Opera to new heights. Again.

(Note: Swerve Magazine's January 19th issue also had a great essay, with fabulous photos, tracking the development of the Opera)

(Note: Bob McPhee is on Calgary Arts Development's Board of Directors. We're not sure how he has time!)