A bold new voice in Canadian opera takes the spotlight this spring as Opera Unbound unveils the world premiere of The Fox, an arresting new chamber opera by Vancouver composer Roan Shankaruk. Running April 17–19 at the ANNEX at 823 Seymour Street, this debut full-length production from the boundary-pushing collective promises an intimate and evocative theatrical experience.
Inspired by D.H. Lawrence’s 1922 novella, The Fox transports audiences to a remote poultry farm in WWI-era Britain, where two women—Nellie March and Jill Banford—live and work in quiet isolation. Their fragile equilibrium is disrupted by the arrival of a charismatic young soldier, Henry Grenfel, whose presence sets off a slow-burning chain of emotional and psychological upheaval. As tensions mount, the opera unfolds as a chilling exploration of power, desire, and the shifting dynamics of control.
Shankaruk’s score blends cinematic intensity with haunting lyricism, underscoring the story’s dreamlike atmosphere and emotional complexity. The work also stands out for its nuanced portrayal of sexuality—still a rarity in operatic storytelling—bringing a contemporary lens to Lawrence’s provocative themes.
Developed from an earlier workshop presentation during the pandemic, The Fox has evolved into a fully staged production through Opera Unbound’s collaborative vision. The company, known for championing innovative and interdisciplinary work, marks this premiere as a defining milestone.
The production features a cast of local talent, mezzo-soprano Taryn Plater as Nellie, and alternating performances of Jill by Renee Fajardo and Shankaruk herself. Montreal-based performer Chris Donlevy will also be joining the cast as Henry. Under the baton of conductor Perri Lo, a small ensemble of strings heightens the opera’s taut, immersive sound world.
With its gripping narrative and evocative score, The Fox offers a striking reimagining of a literary classic.
For tickets and information, visit: operaunbound.com
Last modified: March 25, 2026
