JANUARY 2026 NEWSLETTER — What’s on in January
Happy New Year! ArtSpring’s January lineup is packed to the brim with music, and we are so excited to dance into 2026 alongside you all. This month’s ArtSpring Presents program soars with a bold new MET production, three powerful Canadian musical ensembles, and a two-night immersive film and music experience to top it all off.
On January 10, we kick off the new year with the MET’s first new production of Bellini’s bel canto classic I Puritani in nearly 50 years. Starring soprano Lisette Oropesa, tenor Lawrence Brownlee, baritone Artur Ruciński, and bass-baritone Christian Van Horn, this performance promises tremendous emotional and vocal fireworks as the characters navigate love, loyalty, and madness during the English Civil War. This production marks seasoned set designer Charles Edwards’ MET directorial debut.
On January 17, MET Opera star soprano Mireille Asselin and acclaimed baritone Jesse Blumberg join forces with Victoria Baroque to narrate epic mythological romances through the music of Handel, Purcell, and Rameau. This unique program bridges the gap between the past and present, pairing the ensemble’s signature period-instrument sound with fresh, premiere Canadian works.
Known for high-energy delivery and technical precision, acclaimed string quartet The Fretless hits the stage on January 23. Their signature blend of contemporary soul and ancient fiddle traditions from around the world promises a performance as intricate as it is moving. This show features works from their latest album, Glasswing, which they co-created with singer-songwriter Madeleine Roger.
Acclaimed brass quintet Buzz Brass arrives on January 25 with Famous Inspirations, a high-octane program that reimagines the genius of composers Debussy, Ravel, Liszt, Piazzolla, and Dvořák. This performance strips away the traditional orchestral veil to reveal the rhythmic pulse and vivid tonal shading of works like the Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 through the powerful lens of brass.
Finally, we invite you to a landmark two-night experience with composer/director Corey Payette. Join us on January 30 for the breathtaking film adaptation of Payette’s musical Les Filles du Roi. Then, on January 31, Payette will joined by local choirs, special guests, and a small chamber orchestra in Closest Thing To Home, a live concert that showcases highlights from his acclaimed stage musical career. With workshops in costume design and filmmaking, this weekend offers a rare opportunity to connect with one of Canada’s most daring artistic voices.
Community and off-island offerings this month include GISS Theatre’s Peter Pan, Salt Spring Film Festival’s screening of Everest Dark, Candy Roberts’ Larry, and Vetta Chamber Music’s Concert 3–Music to Warm the Heart–Piano Trios.
To everyone who donated to our 2025 Annual Appeal, thank you. Your generous support keeps the theatre doors open and allows us to showcase incredible talent from near and far. To those who missed the campaign and would still like to support ArtSpring, don’t worry! Though it is too late to receive a 2025 tax receipt, we gratefully accept donations year-round. For more information, please visit artspring.ca/donate.
We look forward to seeing you soon at ArtSpring!
Howard R. Jang
Executive & Artistic Director
ArtSpring
