November 18, 2025

For four performances only (Nov 20–23) in the exquisite Neidorff-Karpati Hall, MSM Graduate Opera Theatre presents L’elisir d’amore, a one-of-a-kind production that sets Donizetti’s beloved classic in a magical toy world where the characters navigate love and mischief in a vibrant, whimsical landscape.

Grace Christensen sings the role of Adina — she tells us about this special production, how she is approaching her role, and why she recommends people come see the opera.

ABOUT GRACE CHRISTENSEN 

Grace Christensen (MM ’26) is a second year master’s student studying under the tutelage of Joan Patenaude-Yarnell. Originally from Peterborough, New Hampshire, Grace grew up in a musical family and went on to receive her undergraduate degree in vocal performance from Boston University. This year at Manhattan School of Music, Grace will be singing the roles of Adina in L’elisir d’amore and Eliza in Dark Sisters. She will present her graduation recital and receive her master’s degree this spring.

MSM Graduate Opera Theatre

L’elisir d’amore

NOV 20-22 | THURS-SAT
7:30 PM

NOV 23 | SUN
2 PM

Music by Gaetano Donizetti
Libretto by Felice Romani

Michael Sakir, Conductor
Katherine M. Carter, Director

Tickets Required
$30 adults, $15 non-MSM students and seniors
USE CODE OPERA30 FOR 30% OFF YOUR TICKET PURCHASE

MSM Opera Theatre is made possible in part by the Joseph F. McCrindle Endowment for Opera Productions. 

Neidorff-Karpati Hall
Manhattan School of Music
130 Claremont Avenue
New York, New York 10027

What is Donizetti’s opera about?

Grace: L’elisir d’amore is about a sensitive young man who is deeply in love with the most admired woman in town, and he will do just about anything to receive her love in return. He meets a man who promises to help him win Adina’s heart, and mischief ensues. Our production is special because it is toy-themed. The opera, which is already adorable in many ways, has been infused with a healthy dose of childhood joy and nostalgia.

What is your role, and how have you stepped into the character’s shoes?

Grace: I’ll be singing the role of Adina, a literate landowning woman who is very popular and beloved amongst her peers. In our production, she has been imagined as a child’s coveted music box ballerina! In terms of stepping into her shoes (or ballet slippers), Donizetti wrote the emotional arc into the score. The way he sets the text, and the rhythmic and melodic colors he creates, tell me how to approach each moment dramatically. Adina is a complex woman with plenty of emotional shifts, and it has been very enjoyable to explore her character.

This opera is a huge sing; how have you handled it?

Grace: This opera is definitely a big sing, but the process has been fulfilling. Donizetti writes so intelligently for the voice that all I had to do was find the right way to pace myself and trust my technique. My wonderful teacher, Joan Patenaude-Yarnell, has spent many hours with me focusing on legato and breath, which are the foundations of successful singing. I’m sure that my portrayal of Adina will keep evolving as I grow as an artist, but I feel very proud of the musical and technical development I’ve been able to achieve these past few months.

Why should people see it?

Grace: People should see L’elisir d’amore because even though it was written almost 200 years ago, the emotions and relationships feel just like the ones we navigate today. It’s a story full of humor, charm, and genuine humanity. The set and costume design are so adorable and visually striking—they really bring our toy world to life. Not to mention, the music is absolutely gorgeous!

Why did you decide to attend MSM?

Grace: I decided to attend MSM because I wanted to study with Joan! I really connect with the way she explains classical technique. I felt as though she would be a great help to me during this time of growth and vocal development. Additionally, I knew that MSM had a strong opera department, and I had been very impressed with the mainstage productions of years past. Now I get to perform in a mainstage production myself, and I am thankful for the opportunity!

What is your most memorable MSM experience?

Grace: My most memorable MSM experiences have been when I’ve had the opportunity to perform alongside my friends. Last year when I sang the role of Abigail Williams in Opera in Concert: The Crucible, I was able to share the stage with so many wonderful colleagues. In our production of L’elisir d’amore, I have had a blast collaborating with my peers to create moments that are musically beautiful and delightfully funny. There is something uniquely fulfilling about creating music together.

What would your character love in our universe?

Grace: I think Adina would love Social Media. As a lover of beauty and the attention of others, she strikes me as someone who would like to curate an aesthetically pleasing Instagram profile!