A musical fable of humanity: CLOWNS(S) premieres in Montreal

On January 31, the Opéra de Montréal presented the world premiere of Montreal composer and librettist Ana Sokolović’s CLOWN(S) to a full house at Théâtre Maisonneuve.

This 75-minute production features stunning operatic voices from four soloists (Aline Kutan, Mireille Lebel, Andrew Haji, and Bruno Roy) and the Opéra de Montréal chorus, but that’s just about where the traditional elements of classic opera end. From there, clowns, acrobats, puppets, brass bands and physical theatre take over.

Structured as a musical fable, CLOWN(S) is an artistic tribute to the life of the clown. Inspired by many sources, including Federic Fellini’s film I Clowns, Sokolović's opera traces the life cycle of a clown from birth to old age. True to their nature, this cast of clowns make us laugh, and reflect on meaning of life and humanity.

The performers guide the audience through eight "tableaux" in a journey reminiscent of opera buffa. Whether unloading their clown car, performing interpretive acrobatics, or being accompanied by a lively brass band, each scene blends humour, movement and music in unexpected ways and in several languages. Even in the more tender moments, subtle (and not so subtle!) comedy and hope remain ever present.

In the opera’s program, Sokolović reflects on the visual and musical richness of CLOWN(S): “Through perpetually shifting tableaux, filled with energy and exuberance, I created a Baroque fresco of an opera — one that combines all my artistic passions: puppets, shadows, acrobatics, and an abundance of Balkan rhythms and effects.”

What makes CLOWN(S) especially remarkable is the density of artistic expression packed into such a short period of time. Trampolines, brass instruments, physical comedy, expressive faces, and playful choreography compete for the audience’s attention in the best possible way. Your eyes are constantly scanning the stage, trying not to miss a single gesture, expression, or perfectly timed gag.

CLOWN(S) can be seen on February 3, 5 and 8. For information, visit https://www.placedesarts.com/en/event/clowns-sokolovic.

Théâtre Maisonneuve is listed as partially accessible by Kéroul, with eight designated wheelchair spaces in the auditorium, accessible parking for permit holders on level P2 and assistance from staff to navigate to seating. Elevators are available for access and wheelchairs can be requested at the central security desk.

For more information, visit https://www.keroul.qc.ca/en/travel/establishment/22678-place-des-arts-theatre-maisonneuve.

Stay tuned to our Spring / Summer 2026 edition to learn about the Opéra de Montréal's initiatives with students at Montreal-area schools and at CHU Sainte-Justine.