Laurier presents Drama Queens, an afternoon of music, empowerment and dialogue

Nov. 2, 2023
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO — Experience a vibrant interpretation of epic and dramatic operatic tales drawn from history, myth and legend when Wilfrid Laurier University presents Drama Queens, featuring the ensemble Opéra Queens, on Nov. 14 in Laurier’s Theatre Auditorium.

Following the performance, Opéra Queens’ founder, executive and artistic director Mike Fan | 范祖铭 (they/) (HBMus ’19) will lead a panel discussion focused on equity, diversity, inclusion, representation and entrepreneurship within the arts and society. The event is presented by Laurier’s Faculty of Music and Office of the Associate Vice President, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Drama Queens will include re-imaginations of Carmen, Tosca and zarzuela; selections from the new short opera Cleopatra Built by Jay Marchand Knight; and compositions by Francesco Cileand Jules Massenet. The performance will feature Fan as drag persona Tanya Smania (she/them), as well as baritone Cesar Bello Rodriguez (he/him) and pianist Jingyi Zhou (she/her).

“Our event not only celebrates the rich tapestry of classical music but also serves as a platform to amplify the voices of underrepresented artists and communities,” said Fan.

Fan said the performance will be held in memory of Lorin Shalanko, a coach accompanist in Laurier’s Faculty of Music who passed away in September. Shalanko had been a part of the faculty since 1999.

“We are honoured to dedicate this event to the memory of Lorin Shalanko, a cherished member of our Laurier community, as well as to stand in solidarity with Transgender Awareness Week,” said Fan.

Opéra Queens’ mission is to present classical music “in full colour” by boldly reinventing classic works and championing new compositions by LGBTQ+ and BIPOC+ artists and their allies. By embracing gender-bending, queerification and drag in its performances, Opéra Queens advocates for a more inclusive and equitable landscape within the classical music industry.

Drama Queens takes place Tuesday, Nov. 14 from noon until 2 p.m. in Laurier’s Theatre Auditorium. For information and tickets, visit the Drama Queens Eventbrite page.