Canadian Opera Company Releases Dates for June 2015 Free Concert Series

The Free Concert Series in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre is a unique opportunity to experience diverse artistic programming in what has become one of Toronto's most exciting cultural hubs. Six inspiring series offer concerts, dance performances and engaging presentations that feature both up-and-coming young artists and established international stars. All performances are FREE to the public, with admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early as late seating is not available.

Date	Series	Artist
June 2, 2015 12 - 1 p.m.	Chamber Music Series	In Praise of Women: Music for Violin and Piano Violinist Véronique Mathieu and pianist Stephanie Chuapresent a fascinating and rarely heard selection of works from women composers, spanning centuries and crossing continents. The program features works for violin and piano by Heather Schmidt, Louise Farrenc, Clara Schumann, Elizabeth Jacquet de la Guerre and others.
June 3, 2015 12 - 1 p.m.	Jazz Series	Instruments are for Surgeons Famous for their infectious energy and uncanny verve, Canada's premier a cappella vocal ensemble, Cadence, has been wowing audiences across the country and around the world for over 15 years with their blend of harmonies, intricate arrangements, vocal dexterity and onstage antics. Whether performing bebop standards, classics by Joni Mitchell or Louis Prima, or cheeky arrangements of 1980s hits, they are quite simply irresistible.

TOUR THE FOUR SEASONS CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts

145 Queen St. W. (at University Avenue)

Cost: $20/adults; $15/seniors and students

The Canadian Opera Company opens the doors of the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts on June 7 and 14, 2015 with 90-minute tours for the general public. These extensive tours include backstage access and are an exciting opportunity to learn more about the first purpose-built opera house in Canada, its history, architecture and innovative acoustic design. Starting at 10:30 a.m., each tour is led by trained docents and includes information and access to the magnificent Isadore and Rosalie Sharp City Room, the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre and R. Fraser Elliott Hall, as well as backstage areas like wig rooms and dressing rooms, the orchestra pit, and other spaces that only a stage door pass could unlock.

Tickets for public tours are $20/adults and $15/seniors and students, and can be purchased in advance at coc.ca or at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts Box Office, located at 145 Queen St. W., Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.Tickets will also be available on the morning of the tour starting at 10 a.m. at the welcome desk located in the main lobby.