The first (and only) time I went to the opera, it was a surprise gift and I didn’t know what to expect. I’ve been a long-time fan of live performances, making it a point to see at least one theatrical show a year. I loved almost everything about my first experience — dressing up, walking into the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, sipping on champagne and finally sitting down in the stunning theatre itself.

That feeling rushed back as I got ready for Operanation, a fundraiser in support of the Canadian Opera Company‘s Ensemble Studio that has a mission of nurturing young individual theatre artists and developing new plays. 100% of the funds raised at this event goes to this program, which is incredible.

With this year’s theme being “A Night of Curiosities,” I knew I was in for a treat. The three floors of the opera house were transformed into a cabinet of curiosities, some doors of which had lock decals signalling special experiences beyond. From a delectable donut tower to a palm reader and even a tiny room to watch an old VHS-taped opera, there were numerous areas to discover and delight in.

Of course, some of the best “curiosities” were the guests themselves. The iconic cultural event brought out everyone’s creatively mysterious personas, which manifested in opulent costumes and more. Of course, how else were we supposed to truly enjoy the enticing elixirs, experimental cuisine and musical hybrids — performed by Juno award-winning artist, Kiesza? Overall, it was an intoxicating night that ended up extending to Soho House. A party that never ends is the best kind.