Witness romance bloom and experience a rarely heard gem as Pietro Mascagni’s charming Italian opera, “L’amico Fritz,” unfolds with wit and warmth. Set in the countryside, follow “the friend” Fritz — a devoted bachelor who proudly swears off marriage until a clever friend and an unexpected connection begin to unravel his certainty. What starts as lighthearted teasing and comic meddling turns into something more tender, as Fritz finds himself caught off guard by love.

Mascagni’s score balances humor and heart. The result is an inviting, feel-good and funny opera that offers a fresh take on how love can unexpectedly change everything.

“L’amico Fritz” is sung in Italian with English supertitles. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute is led by Artistic Director Steven LaCosse and Music Director James Allbritten.