Così fan tutte, the third and final collaboration between Mozart and Lorenzo da Ponte, is a study in contrasts: A story of a friendly wager gone awry paired with music of luminous beauty. Having bet their friend Don Alfonso that their fiancées will resist any temptation, two young men are astounded by their lovers' lack of devotion when courted by two "Albanian" soldiers. Of course, all is forgiven at the end of the comedy. But this farce is underscored by the Mozart's superb music and keen understanding of human nature.