Wolfgang Amadeus' Mozart’s opera The Magic Flute is set in ancient Egypt. But you don’t need to cross continents or travel back in time to experience the magic. Just head to Minnesota’s Iron Range this week, where the Northern Lights Music Festival returns for another summer of chamber music and opera. It’s a moveable feast, with performances in Aurora and Chisholm. There’s even a family-friendly version. It’s a terrific cast of singers from around the world, and there’s always something especially magic about summer opera, especially when it’s as funny, romantic and enchanting as The Magic Flute. 

Also, while we’re talking summer opera in Minnesota, put a placeholder on your mid-August calendar for Richard Strauss’ farce Ariadne auf Naxos at the Lakes Area Music Festival.  Admission is pay-what-you-can, but tickets are required. So get yours early!