Photo Flash: First Look at Sir Thomas Allen, Danielle Pastin, Christopher Tiesi & More in Pittsburgh Opera's COSI FAN TUTTE

Pittsburgh Opera continues its 77th season with a Mozart favorite - COSÌ FAN TUTTE, or the "School for Lovers."

"Britain's Favorite Baritone," Sir Thomas Allen (the real-life inspiration for "Billy Elliot") not only directs, but plays the cynical philosopher Don Alfonso in this charming production. Combine a cast as talented as they are attractive with Mozart's brilliant score, and you have a sublime opera experience of poignant comedy. Set in the Italian seaside, the story centers around two couples and one wager - will they be faithful? Two young military officers are confident their girlfriends will remain true to them. Don Alfonso believes otherwise, and unleashes an inventive scheme to find out.

COSÌ FAN TUTTE is the last of the three masterful collaborations between Mozart and librettist Lorenzo da Ponte (the other two were THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO and DON GIOVANNI). It premiered just a year before Mozart's death.

On stage November 7, 10, 13, and 15, it brings laughs and soul searching to the Benedum Center. Tickets start at $12.

· Saturday, November 7, 8:00 p.m.

· Tuesday, November 10, 7:00 p.m.

· Friday, November 13, 7:30 p.m.

· Sunday, November 15, 2:00 p.m.

Photo Credit: David Bachman Photography