10 Days in a Madhouse

Is she insane — or just pretending?

Follow trailblazing reporter Nellie Bly undercover into the notorious Blackwell’s Asylum. Based on the true story that shocked the world, this award-winning psychological thriller exposes a world where power decides who is believed.

Don’t miss this Canadian premiere from composer Rene Orth and librettist Hannah Moscovitch!

Winner of Best New Opera 2024, this 90-minute tour de force blends a haunting acoustic score with modern electronics to create a “shattering beauty” (The New York Times).

A Masterpiece of Modern Opera

This world-premiere production brings together a powerhouse creative team to reimagine Nellie Bly’s harrowing journey. Award-winning composer René Orth delivers a haunting score that seamlessly blends acoustic beauty with modern electronics, while acclaimed Canadian playwright and librettist Hannah Moscovitch (Red Like Fruit, Interview With a Vampire) provides a sharp, gripping narrative. Under the visceral direction of Joanna Settle and the baton of Music Director Sandra Horst, 10 Days in a Madhouse is a psychological thriller that demands to be seen.

Canadian soprano Mireille Asselin stars as Nellie, a performance described as “a treasure” (Toronto Star) that captures the character’s descent into a world of institutionalized indifference. She is joined by American mezzo-soprano Taylor-Alexis DuPont as the soulful Lizzie and baritone Jorell Williams, who brings a chilling presence to the malevolent Dr. Josiah Blackwell. Together with Lauren Pearl as the sadistic Nurse/Matron and a powerful 9-person chorus, they breathe life into a forgotten history of survival and defiance.

Content warning: ableism, institutionalization, medical abuse, mental illness, sanism, sexual violence, misogyny, physical and emotional abuse, trauma, grief, psychological distress

Generously supported by the Province of Ontario, the City of Toronto, the Government of Canada, the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, and the Toronto Arts Council

10 Days in a Madhouse is a 2026 Pride Toronto Major Cultural Event