Opera lovers may not expect to see classically-trained singers wearing Phillies caps on stage, but a Philadelphia vocal school is subverting those expectations with their reimagined production of a 19th century show. The Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA) is presenting performances of "Don Pasquale" over the next two weeks, with a twist. While the three-act opera was originally set in 19th-century Rome, AVA is relocating it to 1960s South Philly.

"Don Pasquale" is an "opera buffa" (or comic opera, usually presented in Italian) composed by Gaetano Donizetti which premiered in Paris in 1843. The plot follows the titular character in his search for a wealthy bride to spite his rebellious nephew, who is in love with a young widow. Don Pasquale does not approve of the match.