Ruggero Leoncavallo's ultimate backstage drama "Pagliacci," about the loves and jealousies of a traveling comedia dell arte troupe ("pagliacci" means "clowns"), is presented by Skagit Opera at 7:30 p.m. Friday Sept. 21, and Sept. 28; and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 23, and Sept. 30 at McIntyre Hall, at Skagit Valley College, 2501 E. College Way, in Mount Vernon.

Artistic director Erich Parce and conductor Dean Williamson lead a cast that includes Christina Kowalski, Gino Lucchetti, Yuseok Oh and John Coons. Come 45 minutes prior to the show to learn about the performance, history and more.

Tickets range from $15 to $59 and can be reserved at mcintyrehall.org or call 360-416-7727.