Falstaff

Experience one of opera's greatest comedic triumphs as Verdi's Falstaff takes the stage at the magnificent Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul. Based on Shakespeare's beloved rogue Sir John Falstaff, this sparkling opera brims with wit, wordplay, and musical brilliance — a jubilant celebration of life and laughter that showcases Verdi at the very height of his powers. Written at the age of 79, it remains one of the most astonishing creative achievements in all of operatic history. The Ordway Center, St. Paul's crown jewel of the performing arts, provides a breathtaking setting for this grand production. Its exceptional acoustics and elegant architecture create an immersive environment where Verdi's lush orchestrations and lightning-fast ensemble writing come to vivid, electrifying life. Whether you are a lifelong opera devotee or discovering the art form for the first time, the sheer energy and joy of Falstaff is utterly irresistible. Catch this remarkable production across three performance dates — May 9, May 14, and May 16, 2027 — and let yourself be swept away by the mischief of the fat knight himself. From the rousing ensemble finales to the intimate, tender moments, Falstaff delivers an unforgettable evening that reminds audiences why opera has endured for centuries as the most expressive art form in the world.