Plural marriage is illegal under Canadian criminal law, but freedom of religion and life, liberty and security of the person are protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This important conflict is currently playing out in the courts and is at the centre of the story of the opera Dark Sisters, by composer Nico Muhly and librettist Stephen Karam. A panel of experts will explore the legal, societal and moral issues surrounding polygamy, in preparation for Vancouver Opera’s new production – and the Canadian premiere – of  this provocative and moving opera.

Panelists include Micheal Vonn, Policy Director of the BC Civil Liberties Association; Janet Winteringham, Q.C., who appeared as counsel at the Supreme Court of B.C. reference on the constitionality of the anti-polygamy section of the Criminal Code of Canada; and Gillian Calder, Associate Dean of Law at the University of Victoria.

An excerpt from Dark Sisters will be performed.

Tuesday, November 3, 2015
7-9 pm
Alice Mackay Room, Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch
350 West Georgia Street, Vancouver BC
Admission is free. Seating is limited.

 

For more information about Opera Speaks, please click here.