Neighbourhood Opera Tour

Big voices, small paws, and one unforgettable friendship.

Manitoba Underground Opera brings Lauren Bernofsky’s delightful Rufus and Rita on an interactive tour across Manitoba and northern Ontario in August and September 2026, including performances in many local libraries. This playful, heartwarming opera invites audiences of all ages to help choose and shape the story as it unfolds, making each show unique. Through lively music, engaging characters, and spontaneous twists guided by the crowd, Rufus and Rita discover curiosity, courage, and the joy of unexpected friendship. With MUO’s signature up-close performance style, this immersive experience brings the magic of opera right into the community, where every audience becomes part of the adventure.

Creating the next generation of opera lovers

Previously known as the Opera for Children Tour, MUO’s Neighbourhood Opera Tour began in 2017 with performances in just two Winnipeg locations. Since then, we've expanded our tour outside of Winnipeg, bringing opera to The Pas, Flin Flon, Thompson, Swan River, and more! This summer we are thrilled to be visiting First Nations communities for the first time. Families all over Manitoba will get to experience live opera right in their own communities. And since there is no admission fee for any of our performances, there are no financial barriers for any child who wishes to attend. We are able to present our Neighbourhood Opera Tour at no cost to hosting organizations or attendees thanks to the support of public grants and donations from generous opera lovers like you.