Journey from the streets of Paris to the heart of a superb exhibition at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, whose extensive collection of Degas’ works is the most representative in Britain.

With exclusive access to view rare and diverse works, this production tells a fascinating story of Degas’ pursuit for perfection through both experimentation with new techniques and lessons learned from studying the past masters.

Sometimes frustrated by his own failings, Degas was consumed by obsessive principles and failing eyesight; but his determination to capture everyday life was evident in every mark he made. Never fully satisfied, many of Degas’ drawings and sculptures were kept in private during his lifetime; but now through close examination, they can be seen as some of the most beautifully detailed and expressive works in the modern era.

Using written accounts by friends and commentators, and the narration of letters written by Degas himself, this production reveals a more complex truth behind one of the most influential French artists of the late 19th century and serves as an exploration of the complex workings of Degas’ artistic mind. The production runs approximately one hour, 25 minutes.

Individual tickets to Degas: Passion for Perfection are $15, ($10 students). A special flexible subscription of eight tickets that can be used however you want – one at a time to eight different events, all at once for eight people, or anything in between – is $116. Tickets may be purchased in person at the Opera House Box Office or by phone at 679-1891, Tuesday-Friday, 1-5 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online anytime at www.fredopera.org.

The Art & Architecture Series is sponsored by Fredonia Place. Support also comes from the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House is a member-supported not-for-profit organization located in Village Hall in downtown Fredonia. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fredopera.org.