Montreal's opera company has come a long way since its early days in 1980, when it struggled to establish itself in a city already teeming with cultural and artistic activity. Since then, however, it has become one of the most important companies in North America. Recent seasons have included classics like "Tosca" and "The Rape of Lucretia," along with newer works like Tobias Picker's "Thérèse Raquin." Performances take place at Place des Arts.