The Magic Flute is set in an unnamed fantasyland, but this production benefits from local stylistic influences. Tacoma Opera drew inspiration from the art and culture of Pacific Northwest Salish tribes, with valuable assistance from the Puyallup tribe in particular. The event's web page notes the indigenous culture's "impish sense of humor and ... immense respect for nature, all of which blend perfectly with the transcendent music." It'll be interesting to note how these tribal elements are woven into set and costume designs, as The Magic Flute's expansive, episodic structure demands a unifying aesthetic perspective.

Read Christian Carvajal's full feature on The Magic Flute in the Music & Culture section.

THE MAGIC FLUTE, 7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 31, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, Rialto Theater, 310 Ninth St., Tacoma, $29-$72, 253.591.5894