Virginia Opera opens its 25th season at the Center for the Arts with a fascinating double bill not previously seen in Northern Virginia.

The double-bill includes Kurt Weill’s satire about unfettered capitalism “The Seven Deadly Sins.” It is a work that includes both singing and dancing about two poverty-stricken sisters who take a journey across America. They fall prey to sins: Anger, Lust, Greed, Envy, Pride and Jealousy along with Hunger.

The second half of the twin-bill evening is a new production of “Pagliacci” by Leoncavallo. It is a tale about an actor playing a “clown” who nevertheless experiences the great burdens and sorrow, just like any other real person. And his burdens take place in a fast-paced all-consuming journey of jealousy and murder.

This is the sixth consecutive season featuring the "First of Firsts" series introducing local audiences to operas never performed by Virginia Opera, said Adam Turner, Virginia Opera’s Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor.

“Virginia Opera makes a bold repertory choice with this season’s opener designed to pique the interest of both newcomers and seasoned opera goers alike,” said Turner. “Virginia Opera is truly excited to present this unique pairing.”

When asked why audiences who may not regularly attend opera should try the unique pairing of two operas, he said, “One of the first complaints I hear from folks about giving opera a try is: ‘It's too long’ or ‘I won't understand, it's in another language.’ ‘The Seven Deadly Sins’ is only 35 minutes in length, and it's sung in English.”

Turner went on to say that “Pagliacci” has “one of the most familiar and easy-to-follow stories of the entire opera repertory and it is only 80 minutes in length. With its highly dramatic storyline and incredibly powerful music, Leoncavallo's ‘Pagliacci’ is the perfect opera for a ’first-timer.’"

“Pagliacci” also features one of the most moving and well known tenor arias of all time; “Vesti la giubba.” The aria is often used in pop culture and spoofs including in “The Simpsons.” Even the band Queen used it.

“I am so excited to be making my directorial debut at Virginia Opera, especially with such an unusual pairing of operatic works,” said director Keturah Stickann. “It will be an incredible season opening for Virginia patrons.”

Inviting patrons Virginia Opera President/CEO Russell P. Allen added, “Virginia Opera is committed to bringing to the stage vibrant new repertory and productions.”

Where and When

Virginia Opera presents “The Seven Deadly Sins” & “Pagliacci” at the Center for the Arts, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Performances: Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 at 2 p.m. Tickets: $54,$90, $110. Call 888-945-2468 or visit: www.cfa.gmu.edu

Note: “The Seven Deadly Sins” will be performed in English with English supertitles. “Pagliacci” will be performed in Italian with English supertitles.

Note: Pre-opera discussion by Virginia Opera’s Dr. Glenn “Dr. Opera” Winters 45 minutes before the curtain.