Opera Columbus kicks off its season with a new production of Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci, the world-famous Italian opera, with shows at 8 p.m. Oct. 23 and 2 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St.

A story within a story, Pagliacci is about a jealous husband portrayed as a clown. After learning of his wife’s infidelity, he must still make the audience laugh at all costs. As the production plays out, it gives way to further tragedy as his theatre and real live begin to blur.

This piece displays one of opera’s most well-known and favorite arias, Vesti la giubba. It will be sung in Italian with English subtitles, and conducted by William Boggs with accompaniment by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.

The production stars Michael Hayes and Robin Follman.

Tickets range from $27.50 to $102.50 with special discounts offered to groups, children, college students and students part of the High 5 program. To purchase tickets, call 614-469-0939 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.