For quality drama and damnation, leave the Real Housewives and kids of Jersey Shore behind and go old school with the Dallas Opera. With only two operas left in its 2010-2011 of "Dangerous Desires," it's only fitting that the Dallas Opera would include a performance of the Giuseppe Verdi classic Rigoletto. Leave it to one of opera's masters to school us on the dangers of what happens when human characteristics like vengeance, ridicule, corruption and retaliation rear their ugly heads on the cursed deserving. Featuring a cast of local and international stars such as Laura Claycomb and James Valenti, this Italian masterpiece is the epitome of the tragic failings of mankind. Check out opening night of Rigoletto this Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St., with additional performances through April 10. Tickets are $36 to $275. Call 214-443-1000 or visit dallasopera.org.
Fri., March 25, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., March 27, 2-5 p.m.; Wed., March 30, 7:30-10:30 p.m., 2011