Sondra Radvanovsky and Scott Hendricks in Aida (photo by Michael Cooper)

OCTOBER 2 TO NOVEMBER 5 The Canadian Opera Company opens its latest season with Aida, one of opera’s most spectacular stories. Giuseppe Verdi’s tour de force tells the tale of a forbidden love between an Egyptian king and an Ethiopian slave set against a backdrop of war, jealousy and political intrigue. With soprano Sondra Radvanovsky in the lead role and acclaimed director Tim Albery at the helm, this new production is sure to be a stunning affair. Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, $28 to $62; call 416-363-8231 or visit here for showtimes and to buy.