Opera Notre Dame Presents: Candide, Dec 5, 2025 7:30PM

Department of Music

This exciting presentation is a newly invented production featuring striking new design and stage concepts. Experience the witty and satirical journey of the ever-optimistic Candide through a fresh visual lens.

The Story: The Best of All Possible Worlds?

Based on Voltaire's famous novella, Candide follows the journey of a sheltered young man named Candide, who is raised to believe, under his teacher Dr. Pangloss, that they live in the "best of all possible worlds." When his idyllic life is shattered, Candide is thrust into a hilarious, yet harrowing, global adventure. He encounters war, natural disasters, and chaos while desperately trying to reunite with his beloved Cunegonde and maintain his cheerful philosophy. The operetta is a moving quest that asks: after all the misfortune, how do we find meaning and happiness?

This lively production features the incredible talents of students from the Sacred Music Program, the Music Department, and performers from the greater community. The performance will be brought to exhilarating life by a live orchestra, performing Bernstein's stunning and diverse score—from waltzes and tangos to powerful chorales. Don't miss this delightful and thought-provoking evening of music, humor, and adventure!