The Nutcracker in Oxnard

Saturday - December 7: 2pm and 7pm and Sunday - December 8: 7pm | Oxnard Performing Arts Center

We are thrilled to expand our Nutcracker tradition in a new partnership with Ventura County Ballet! This year, for the first time, the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra will accompany Ventura County Ballet's production of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker at the beautiful 1600-seat Oxnard Performing Arts Center! There's nothing like ending the year with a grand performance of The Nutcracker with live full orchestra. Join us in Oxnard and make it a stay-cation!

Saturday, December 7, 2pm and 7pm
Sunday, December 8, 2pm

The Nutcracker in San Luis Obispo

FRIDAY - December 13, 7pm; SATURDAY - December 14, 2pm & 7pm; SUNDAY - December 15, 2pm | Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo

The end of the year means, Civic Ballet San Luis Obispo's presentation of Lorilee Silvaggio’sThe Nutcracker! For over 40 years, the Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo has presented this holiday classic (including 25 years performing to sold out audiences). Lori Lee Silvaggio’s The Nutcracker is filled with all the pageantry, magic and wonder that have made this one of the most enduring holiday traditions around the globe. Audiences of all ages will marvel in this spectacular and professional production, accompanied by the OperaSLO Grand Orchestra conducted by OperaSLO's General and Artistic Director, Maestro Brian Asher Alhadeff.

Friday, Dec. 13th at 7pm

Saturday, Dec. 14th at 2PM and 7PM

Sunday, Dec. 15th at 2 PM

The Nutcracker in Santa Barbara

SATURDAY - December 21, 2pm & 7:30pm; SUNDAY - December 22, 2pm | Granada Theater Santa Barbara

The end of the year means The Nutcracker, Santa Barbara-style at one of California's most beautiful venues - the historic Granada Theatre. Audiences of all ages will marvel at the magic and wonder of this spectacular and professional production by Santa Barbara's State Street Ballet, accompanied by the OperaSLO Grand Orchestra conducted by OperaSLO Artistic Director, Maestro Brian Asher Alhadeff. 

Saturday, December 21, 2023; 2:00 pm and 7:30pm
Sunday, December 22, 2023; 2:00 pm

Behind Barbed Wire - WORLD PREMIERE

Friday, January 31, 2025 | 7:30pm | Clark Center in Arroyo Grande

Behind Barbed Wire: A Glimpse at Central Coast Japanese American Life During WWII centers around 1942, a few weeks prior to graduation, when nearly 45% of the Arroyo Grande High School Graduating Class were bussed with their Japanese-American families to isolated internment camps. Historian Jim Gregory (author of World War II Arroyo Grande), composer Deon Nielsen Price (Behind Barbed Wire), and conductor Brian Alhadeff (OperaSLO Grand Orchestra), are pleased to present a commemoration of that tumultuous time.

With a live orchestra and a big band, guest performers, video, poetry, swing music of the 1940’s and narration, this special production shares this region’s local heritage of sacrifice, friendship, patriotism, hard work, and community solidarity.

Featuring: Darryl Taylor, Countertenor; Chika Inoue, Saxophone; Mary Au, Piano; Narration by Jim Gregory, People of Honor; Video Editing by Highlight Media – Christina Bearce; Musical Compositions by Deon Nielsen Price; Justine Prado Manro, Stage Director; Friendly Neighborhood Big Band, Mitch Latting, Director; and the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra with Brian Asher Alhadeff, Music Director and Conductor

Sponsored by: Culver Crest Publications, Osumi Agricultural Company Inc., South County Historical Society, Hayashi Family Farms, Opera San Luis Obispo, an the Clark Center for the Performing Arts.

The Little Mermaid - WORLD PREMIERE BALLET

Saturday, March 1: 2pm & 7:30pm | Sunday, March 2: 2pm at the Lobero Theater in Santa Barbara

The Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra joins forces with State Street Ballet Santa Barbara and OSLO Resident composer Charles Fernandez in a world premiere ballet featuring all-new sets, costumes, life-sized puppets. In this heartwarming tale, The Little Mermaid takes the ultimate adventure, sacrificing her tail and her voice to experience life as a human and pursue true love. An imaginative take on a classic story, this production is perfect for all ages.

Choreography by Megan Philipp and Cecily MacDougall
Music by Charles Fernandez (World Premiere)
Featuring the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra
Conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff

*Young audience members are invited to enter the theater at 1:15 pm on March 2nd to take a photo with a real ballerina and hear her tell the story of The Little Mermaid.

*Families with special needs or small children are invited to our first sensory-friendly Performance on March 1 at 2:00 pm. During sensory-friendly performances, the lights in the theater stay on, the music is played more quietly, fidget items are welcome, and patrons can move, vocalize, and behave in ways that are often unfamiliar in other performance settings. Tickets are $20; subsidized tickets are available upon request.

*This is a State Street Ballet Santa Barbara season production which OperaSLO is honored to collaborate. 

Carmen by Georges Bizet

October 19 and 20, 2024 | BOTH PERFORMANCES 2PM

CARMEN is widely accepted as the most famous opera of all time and Opera San Luis Obispo’s grand production of the timeless work promises to land far above expectations with an internationally acclaimed cast of opera stars, expansive ballet, spectacular two-story sets, vivid costumes: all accompanied by the fantastic OperaSLO Grand Orchestra! A countywide arts collaboration, this epic production will unify artists and other non-profits throughout San Luis Obispo County including Civic Ballet San Luis Obispo, Applause Children’s Theater, several collaborating choruses, and others. Carmen will be directed by Joshua Wentz (OSLO Debut), choreographed by Drew Silvaggio, and conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff.

The opera will be sung in French with English supertitles. Experience opera in grand proportions! Carmen is the perfect first opera just as sure as it's a “homerun” for seasoned opera lovers to revisit.

LISTEN TO THE OPERASLO GRAND ORCHESTRA PERFORM THE OVERTURE TO CARMEN FROM OUR 2021 NEW YEARS EVE GALA

About Carmen

Set in Spain in the 1820s, Carmen is a dramatic tale of love, jealousy and tragedy. The story follows the naïve soldier Don José, who is seduced by Carmen, a fiery gypsy woman with an appetite for smuggling. The hopeless José abandons his childhood sweetheart, turns his back on his military career, joins Carmen’s band of thugs, and eventually confronts Carmen’s new love Escamillo, the glamorous prize bull fighter of Seville! French composer Georges Bizet’s Spanish-inflected score presents one cascading unmistakable tune after the other: from the first seconds of the famous overture, to Carmen’s seductive ‘Habanera,’ Escamillo’s ‘Toreador Song,’ the Seguidilla, the rollicking quintet, melodies of the bullfight, and so much more!

Rooftop Vocal Concert with Touring Orchestra

SUNDAY - August 27, 2023 | 12pm-3pm

This stop on our 39th Season "Opera & Broadway Road Trip" features an afternoon rooftop concert at the Hotel San Luis Obispo! This beautiful location rests in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo. Boasting georgeous 360-degree views, this elegant rooftop loung is an exciting venue for presenting fantastic Resident and Guest artists along with the OperaSLO 18-piece touring orchestra in an exciting journey through the greatest hits of musical theater and opera. Light refreshments will be served - all seats $45.

Guyomar Wine Cellars Vocal Concert with Touring Orchestra

SUNDAY - September 10, 2023 | 5pm-8pm

OperaSLO debuts at Guyomar Wine Cellar! From a beautiful hilltop this Templeton estate presents picturesque views of North County’s rolling vineyards! OperaSLO’s 18-piece touring orchestra accompanies Resident and Guest artists in a concert of musical theater and opera’s greatest hits. Wine and appetizers included.

September 10, 2023 / Limited Seating $45 ALMOST SOLD OUT!

What, I'm Singing What? - Patron Created Vocal Concert

SUNDAY - October 15, 2023 | 1pm-4pm

Have a say in what’s sung! Join OperaSLO Resident and Guest artists accompanied by pianist Paul Woodring in an entirely new, fun, and interactive afternoon of Broadway and opera's greatest hits - only you're in charge! This event takes place in the Pavilion Venue of Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo. Ticket price includes wine tasting and catered appetizers. All seats $37.

Intimate Vocal Recital at Libretto

SUNDAY - November 12, 2023 | 5pm-8pm

Join us in an historic building that was once the Paso Robles Opera House for an intimate evening of Broadway and opera hits. OperaSLO Resident and Guest artists are accompanied by pianist Paul Woodring. Food and wine available for purchase. General admission $45.

Vocal Recital In Pink with Touring Orchestra

SUNDAY - November 26, 2023 | 1pm-4pm

OperaSLO is excited to return to the iconic Madonna Inn. This iconic San Luis Obispo venue comes to life with OperaSLO's fantastic Resident and Guest artists accompanied by our 18-piece touring orchestra in an exciting journey through the greatest hits of musical theater and opera. Light refreshments will be served.

A New Years Eve Gala: From 42nd Street to the MET

SUNDAY - December 31, 2023 | 7pm-8:30pm

Join us this New Year's Eve for a spectacular citywide arts collaborative gala featuring the best of Broadway, opera, and dance! This amazing evening rings in the New Year with eight nationally acclaimed vocalists, special guests; Ballet Theater San Luis Obispo, Central Coast Gilbert and Sullivan, and the Cuesta College Concord Chorus, along with the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff.

Paso Robles House Party Recital with Ginger and Stan Schwartz

SUNDAY - January 21, 2024 | 1pm-4pm

Join us for an intimate house party recital hosted by Ginger and Stan Schwartz featuring OperaSLO Resident and Guest artists. Light appetizers and wine included. All seats $100.

That's Amore - OperaSLO's Fundraiser Recital!

SUNDAY - February 11, 2023 | 1pm-3pm

Celebrate Valentine's Day with OperaSLO's romantic themed recital-fundraiser at San Luis Obispo's historic Monday Club; designed by famous Hearst Castle architect Julia Morgan! This "Party with a Purpose" is also a sneak preview to the leading cast of our Mother's Day weekend grand production of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast"! We're thrilled to introduce patrons to soprano Hilary Maiberger who will play the role of "Belle", and baritone Grant Gary who will play the role of "Beast"! The event will also include a "Princess Dessert Auction" showcasing the regions finest bakers. This exciting recital will be accompanied by pianist Susan Davies and also feature talented young artists in an afternoon of Broadway's greatest hits! What better way to show your love for someone special and OperaSLO? Tickets include wine and light appetizers. All seats $100.

DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST - Grand Musical!

SATURDAY & SUNDAY - MAY 11 & 12, 2024 | Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo

Opera San Luis Obispo is thrilled to present a grand production of the Disney musical BEAUTY AND THE BEAST!

Celebrate Mother's Day Weekend with the entire family in a production you'll remember for the rest of your lives! Perfect for all ages, you’ve not experienced musical theatre until you see it produced by a grand opera company, and OperaSLO’s production promises to thrill and wow patrons moment-to-moment with expansive sets and costumes, ballet, chorus, an nationally acclaimed leading cast, all accompanied by the full OperaSLO Grand Orchestra conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff. The production will be directed by Zach Johnson.

FOR THE SECOND TIME IN OPERASLO'S HISTORY WE"VE ADDED ANOTHER PERFORMANCE!!

SATURDAY, MAY 11th at 7PM | BEST SEATING STILL AVAILABLE!!

SATURDAY & SUNDAY | MAY 11th and 12th | BOTH PERFORMANCES 2PM | BOTH SHOWS ALMOST SOLD OUT

KEY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES STILL AVAILABLE - CALL TODAY TO DISCUSS OPTIONS: (805) 782-7342

About Disney's Beauty And The Beast:
An arrogant young prince and his castle's servants fall under the spell of a wicked enchantress, who turns him into the hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return. The spirited, headstrong village girl Belle enters the Beast's castle after he imprisons her father Maurice. With the help of his enchanted servants, including the matronly Mrs. Potts, Belle begins to draw the cold-hearted Beast out of his isolation.

Want to know what an Opera San Luis Obispo grand production is like? See our media page to experience a short video from a recent past production!

Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss II

MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND: May 13 and 14 - Both Performances at 2PM

Opera San Luis Obispo is thrilled to present an entirely new production of Johann Strauss II's comic masterpiece DIE FLEDERMAUS. Sung in English, our newly envisioned production updates the opera to a 1970's themed disco party while transforming Miossi Hall into San Luis Obispo's very own Studio 54! One of the most famous operas of all time, DIE FLEDERMAUS is a perfect first-opera experience for newcomers.

Make Mother’s Day Weekend 2023 a “forever memory” with an afternoon of laughs and tomfoolery set to the most famous melodies and Viennese waltzes of all time. From the team that brought you South Pacific (2019) and Carousel (2022), Stage Director Zach Johnson, Choreographer Drew Silvaggio, and Music Director & Conductor Brian Asher Alhadeff join forces again with an acclaimed cast of singers and dancers alongside the OperaSLO Grand Orchestra and Chorus.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY | May 13 and 14 | BOTH PERFORMANCES 2PM

STAY TUNED & MARK YOUR CALENDARS - TICKETS ON SALE SOON

KEY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES STILL AVAILABLE - CALL TODAY TO DISCUSS OPTIONS: (805) 782-7342

About Die Fledermaus:

Want to know what an Opera San Luis Obispo grand production is like? See our media page to experience a short video from a recent past production!

Broadway On The Vines: A Sneak Preview to Leading Carousel Artists!

Saturday, August 20 | 7pm-9pm

We are grateful to Tolosa Winery and Vineyard for sponsoring an exciting preview of Carousel Artists! This exciting experience pairs selections from Carousel and other opera and Broadway hits with tantalizing wines, chocolates, and cheeses. Pianist Paul Woodring accompanies leading artists in OperaSLO's October production of Carousel! Ticket price is all-inclusive.

Great Music, Stunning Cars, & Fabulous Wines!

Saturday, October 30, 2021 from 1pm-4pm

We're thrilled to present an afternoon of live opera, broadway, and art songs, at the home of auto and opera enthusiasts Jason and Bonnie Len! We promise you'll have a fantastic time with wines from Vina Robles, bottled water, and tours of the Jason Len Classic Car and Motorcycle Museum.

Meet world famous racer and restorer Jason Len and his Museum which features a large collection of posters, artwork, and, many classic cars and motorcycles featured in magazines world-wide. Tour includes the restoration shop, featuring a 1953 Jaguar, 1948 MG TC, very rare 1951 Norton International, and a 1951 Vincent Blackshadow (one of the most valuable and famous classic motorcycles in the world). The main museum features 35+ vintage motorcycles and classic cars, including a Morgan race car featured on the Jay Leno Garage, and a vintage racing Jaguar E Type.

$75 PER PERSON PAID IN ADVANCE WITH RSVP - LIMITED TO 40 PATRONS
BY CALLING JAYNE COHEN AT 805.550.1327

THIS IS AN OUTDOOR CONCERT & EVENT

Out of an abundance of caution, we will not be serving food, however you are invited to bring your own picnic. Please be assured all OperaSLO staff and artists have received the COVID-19 vaccine.

New Year's Eve Super Gala with OperaSLO & Friends

Friday, December 31, 2021 at 7:30pm | Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo

Make your plans for New Year’s Eve with Opera San Luis Obispo at the PAC in an epic evening of pops, opera, musical theater, and dance! The OperaSLO Grand Orchestra and maestro Brian Asher Alhadeff present a fantastic line-up of world-renowned award-winning artist and ensembles including vocalists Alba Franco Cancel, Shira Renee Thomas, Karen Dunn, Eliana Nunely, Gregory Gorrindo, Dylan F. Thomas, and Zach Apel.

This unforgettable New Year’s Eve Super Gala includes the San Luis Obispo premieres of George Gershwin’s "I got rhythm” with pianist Terry Spiller, and “Bubbles: A tribute to Lawrence Welk” with dancers from Santa Barbara’s State Street Ballet. And that’s just the beginning as we promise to thrill you with the greatest music of all time including hits from West Side Story, Funny Girl, Carousel, Carmen, and Tocsa just to name a few.This amazing evening all happens in the Harold Miossi Auditorium in Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo
TICKETS: $25 - $90 Online here, or by phone at (805) 756-4849, Monday-Saturday, 12pm-6pm.

PACSLO Safety Requirements: State and county guidelines require proof of vaccination, or negative COVID test taken 72 hours prior to the event start, in order to enter the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo. Masks are required at all times unless eating or drinking in the lobby. Please view all venue safety requirements, which will always have the most current and complete guest requirements to attend.

MET Live in HD 2022/23 SEASON

OperaSLO's Special Relationship with the MET Live in HD!

Join long-time OperaSLO Board Member Dr. John Frey in a wonderful course through New York's Metropolitan Opera "Live in HD" broadcast series. Dive deep into the history of each opera and its composer a few days before the opera shows at San Luis Obispo's Downtown Cinema! Each preview course is held at the SLO County Office of Education: 3350 Education Dr, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 - just across HWY 1 from Cuesta College.

$5 per class. You can also purchase a 125-page spiral-bound course syllabus for $15. Downtown Cinema MET HD tickets sold separately. The Downtown Cinema is located at 888 Marsh St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 For specific questions and additional information please contact John Frey at JENFREY@aol.com or by phone at (805) 549-0721. Remaining courses and showings below:

Lohengrin by Wagner

Preview Course = WED. Mar 15 (1 PM)

Downtown Cinema Showing = SAT. Mar 18, 2023

Falstaff by Verdi

Preview Course = WED. Mar 29 (1 PM)

Downtown Cinema Showing = SAT. Apr 1, 2023

Der Rosenkavalier by R. Strauss

Preview Course = WED. Apr 12 (1 PM)

Downtown Cinema Showing = SAT. Apr 15, 2023

Champion by Blanchard

Preview Course = WED. Apr 26 (1 PM)

Downtown Cinema Showing = SAT. Apr 29, 2023

Don Giovanni by Mozart

Preview Course = WED. May 17 (1 PM)

Downtown Cinema Showing = SAT. May 20, 2023

Die Zauberflöte by Mozart

Preview Course = WED. May 31 (1 PM)

Downtown Cinema Showing = SAT. Jun 3, 2023

CANCELLED: BEST OF BROADWAY - SLO Edition!

Saturday, August 14, 2021 - 1pm | Courtyard by Marriott Terrace and Banquet Rooms

CANCELLED - BROADWAY ON THE VINES - Black Tie Fundraiser at Cass Winery

Sunday, August 15, 2021 - 6pm | Cass Winery Barrel Room

Virtual Summer Opera Camp

CURRENTLY NOT OFFERED

Children's Summer Opera Camp is currently not offered due to new educational outreach initiatives in place, such as our extremely busy Mobile Opera House visiting schools all over the county! We are however leaving this page visible in the event we re-open Children's Summer Opera Camp at some point in the future. 

VIRTUAL OPERA CAMP 2021: PROMO

VIRTUAL OPERA CAMP 2020: The Wind It Blows

OPERA CAMP 2019: The Mikado

OPERA CAMP 2018: The Magic Flute

POSTPONED: An Afternoon in New York: From Broadway to the MET

Saturday, May 9, 4pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

This broadcast is officially canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please visit the PACSLO ticket office to learn about refund options.

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849. Box office times here.

Opera San Luis Obispo invites you to kick off Mother’s Day weekend with a fantastic afternoon of music featuring the OperaSLO Grand Orchestra! This concert will dazzle patrons of all walks with selections of musical theatre, opera, ballet, modern dance, and chorus in a celebration of Central Coast arts and how much we have in common with the artistic vibrance of New York City! Special guests include OperaSLO’s The Three Sopranos: Alba Franco-Cancél, Amy Goymerac, and Karen Dunn, in addition to other local favorites! This event is supported by the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education and other advocates for the arts.

Tickets: $25 per person

OperaSLO Gala Extraordinaire

Saturday, May 11, 4pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

The first annual Countywide Gala Extraordinaire is a collaboration of professionals, local arts organizations and county school groups performing famous selections of music and dance. This event is sponsored by the County Office of Education with a mission to promote learning by facilitating students working alongside professional artists in professional performance opportunities and venues.

Come support our local arts students and be a part of this magical educational experience! This special concert pairs students with OperaSLO Resident Artists, accompanied by the OperaSLO Grand Orchestra, under the direction of Artistic and General Director Dr. Brian Asher Alhadeff. The program lineup includes:

"Light A Candle For Peace" featuring solo performances by Kaia Ferreira, Los Osos Middle School, and Gage Neumann, Atascadero High School, and combined choruses;
Medley from "Wicked" featuring soloists Olivia Bennett and Madelynn Schultz, both from Morro Bay High School;
"The Composer's Aria" (Sein wir wieder gut!) from Ariadne auf Naxos featuring OperaSLO Resident Artist Holly Banfield, Mezzo Soprano;
"Blue Tango" and "El Choco: Tango Argentino" performed by Ballet Theater San Luis Obispo;
"Swan Lake" (Waltz from Act 1) featuring Movement Arts Center, San Luis Obispo;
OperaSLO Resident Artist Amy Goymerac, soprano, will sing "Saper Vorreste" from Um Ballo in Maschera;
OperaSLO Resident Artist Alba Franco-Cancél, Soprano, will perform "The Bell Song" (L'Air des clochettes) from Lakmé
"Overture to South Pacific" featuring the OperaSLO Grand Orchestra;
"Barcarolle" (Belle nuit, ô nuit d'amour) from The Tales of Hoffman featuring OperaSLO Resident Artists Amy Goymerac, Soprano, Holly Banfield, Mezzo-Soprano, and combined school choruses.

This event is sponsored by the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education whose mission is to promote the arts by facilitating students working alongside professional artists in a professional setting.

Saturday, May 11 - 4pm
Performing Arts Center SLO
1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Tickets $25

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849 Mon-Sat 12-6pm!

If you would like to inquire about free tickets for school groups, please contact Brent Moser, San Luis Obispo County Office of Education at: bmoser@slocoe.org.

Gathering Nuggets from the Golden Age of Broadway

Thursday, May 23, 1pm | Mount Carmel Lutheran Church

Kiss Me, Kate (1949) - Fiddler on the Roof (1964) - Cabaret (1966) - Pippin (1972)

Musical theater combines music, songs, spoken dialogue and dance. The emotional content of the piece – humor, pathos, love, anger – and the story itself, is communicated through the words, music, movement and technical aspects as an integrated whole. Since the early 20th century, musical theater stage works have generally been called simply, "musicals.”

Early in the 20th century, the Princess Theater musicals and other smart shows like Of Thee I Sing were artistic steps forward beyond revues and other frothy entertainments. They led to such groundbreaking works as Show Boat and Oklahoma!. Some of the most famous and iconic musicals through the decades that followed have included West Side Story, The Fantasticks, Hair, A Chorus Line, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Rent, The Producers and Wicked.

Each Session meets at the Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Frederick St. SLO, located at the intersection of Hwy 101 and Grand Ave, just off the Freeway.

All sessions run from 1- 4 PM, Thursdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23. Each session includes a video segment from each of the operas and discussion. Participants receive a 49-page course syllabus with bios, synopses and commentary.

The donation is $20 for the entire 4-session course or $7 for a single session. All proceeds go to Support OperaSLO. To register, send a check addressed to: OperaSLO, PO Box 14760, San Luis Obispo, CA 93406

Checks or cash will be accepted at each session. (write “broadway” on the lower left line of the check)

May 2 - Kiss Me, Kate is a musical with music and lyrics by Cole Porter based on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. It is a play-within-a-musical featuring the conflict on and off-stage between the director, producer, and star of performance of the Shrew, and his leading lady and ex-wife.

May 9 - Fiddler on the Roof is a musical with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and book by Joseph Stein, set in Tsarist Russia in 1905. It is based on Tevye and his Daughters (or Tevye the Milkman and Other Tales) by Sholem Aleichem. The story centers on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and Jewish religious traditions while outside influences encroach upon their lives. He must cope both with the strong-willed actions of his three older daughters - each one's choice of husband moves further away from the customs of his faith - and with the edict of the Tsar that evicts the Jews from their village.

May 16 - Cabaret is a musical based on a book written by Christopher Isherwood, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. The 1966 Broadway production became a hit and spawned a 1972 film as well as numerous subsequent productions. It is based on John Van Druten's 1951 play I Am a Camera, which in turn was adapted from the 1939 short novel Goodbye to Berlin by Christopher Isherwood. Set in 1931 Berlin as the Nazis are rising to power, it focuses on nightlife at the seedy Kit Kat Klub and revolves around the 19-year-old English cabaret performer Sally Bowles and her relationship with the young American writer Cliff Bradshaw..

May 23 - Pippin is a musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Roger O. Hirson. Bob Fosse, who directed the original Broadway production, also contributed to the libretto. The musical uses the premise of a mysterious performance troupe, led by a Leading Player, to tell the story of Pippin, a young prince on his search for meaning and significance.

The protagonist, Pippin, and his father, Charlemagne, are characters derived from two real-life individuals of the early Middle Ages, though the plot presents very little historical accuracy regarding either. As of June 2013, the original run of Pippin is the 31st longest-running Broadway show.

For specific questions and additional information please contact John Frey at JENFREY@aol.com or phone 549-0721.

Symphony at Sunset

Sunday, June 10 - 7pm

Vina Robles Amphitheatre is proud to host SYMPHONY AT SUNSET for a third consecutive year, featuring the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra accompanied by acclaimed soloists for an evening performance of pops under the stars. Conducted by Artistic Director Brian Asher Alhadeff, this family-friendly program will star soprano Alba Franco-Cancél as well as pianist Matthew Harikian and include familiar classics, Broadway hits and popular music ranging from Star Wars to the Beatles.

The performance will be held at Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Sunday, June 10, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 and go on sale Friday, April 6 at 10:00 a.m. Through a generous partnership with the San Luis Obispo County Offices of Education, free admission will be given to children under the age of 16 with each paid adult ticket.

Artistic Director Brian Asher Alhadeff is an internationally recognized opera, ballet and symphonic conductor. In addition to his work with Opera San Luis Obispo, he is the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Lompoc Pops Orchestra, as well as the Principal Conductor for Civic Ballet San Luis Obispo and State Street Ballet, Santa Barbara. Alhadeff studied conducting at the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore, MD and the Janacek Academy in Brno, Czech Republic.

Thrilling audiences with her pure and silvery sound, soprano Alba Franco-Cancél recently debuted in Los Angeles with the Pacific Opera Project as well as in the Bay Area with the Livermore Valley Opera. Franco-Cancél received a Doctoral degree in Voice from the Conservatory of Music of the University of Missouri under the guidance of world-renowned tenor Vinson Cole and is a 2017-2018 Opera San Luis Obispo Resident Artist.

A native of Fresno, CA, pianist Matthew Harikian is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at the University of Minnesota in both Piano Performance and Music Theory. He has performed solo recitals in Fresno and Turlock, CA as well as a concerto appearance with the St. Olaf College Orchestra. Harikian most recently appeared at Pianofest in the Hamptons, a prestigious summer festival in East Hampton, NY and was a soloist with the Lompoc Pops Orchestra.

SYMPHONY AT SUNSET promises to be a wonderful night of entertainment under the stars at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Sunday, June 10. Tickets are available at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre box office, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 800-745-3000. This is a general admission show with all tickets priced at $25.00, plus applicable service charges. All dates, acts and ticket prices subject to change without notice. The Vina Robles Amphitheatre is located at 3800 Mill Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446, the box office can be reached at 805-286-3680. For more information, please visit www.VinaRoblesAmphitheatre.com.

Searching for the Real Traviata

Thursday, November 15 - 1pm | Mount Carmel Lutheran Church

You are undoubtedly quite familiar with Verdi's supreme opera - La Traviata. But do you know who the real Traviata was? This 3-session course will give you some understanding of the real person portrayed in the opera. The story of Traviata originates in the novel by Alexandre Dumas fils, La Dame aux Camelias. This novel inspired numerous stage dramas, 20 movies, several ballets and Verdi's great opera, which is currently the most popular opera worldwide.

The course will feature showings of Greta Garbo's grand 1936 movie, Camille, John Neumier;s classic ballet, with music by Chopin, Die Kameliendame, and Verdi's masterful La Traviata, all of which explore the life of the famous Parisian courtesan, Marie Duplessis.

Each Session meets at the Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Frederick St. in SLO - located at the intersection of Hwy 101 and Grand Ave, just off the Freeway.

All sessions run from 1- 4pm, Thursdays, November 1, 8 and 15

Each session includes a video segment from each of the operas and discussion. Participants receive a 28-page course syllabus with bios, synopses and commentary.

The donation is $15 for the entire 3-session course or $7 for a single session. All proceeds go to Support OperaSLO.

To register, send a check addressed to:

OperaSLO, PO Box 14760

San Luis Obispo, CA 93406

Checks or cash will be accepted at each session. (write “Traviata” on the lower left line of the check)

For specific questions and additional information please contact John Frey at JENFREY@aol.com or phone 805-549-0721.

Details on Each Class:

La Dame aux Camélias is a novel by Alexandre Dumas, fils, first published in 1848, and subsequently adapted by Dumas for the stage. The play premiered in Paris, France on February 2, 1852. The play was an instant success, and Giuseppe Verdi, who saw the play, immediately set about putting the story to music. His work became the 1853 opera La Traviata,. In the English-speaking world, La Dame aux Camélias became known as Camille and 16 versions have been performed at Broadway theaters alone in addition to 20 movies and 3 ballets. John Neumeier adapted his ballet from novelist Dumas's novel using of the music of Frédéric Chopin.

The Novel and Play: Alexandre Dumas fils - La Dame aux Camélias

On February 2, 1852, Dumas fils’ play La dame aux camélias was produced in Paris. It was an immediate success, made his name and became one of the most popular French plays of the 19th century. It was a landmark in the French theater as one of the first dramas to take contemporary life as its theme and as one of the first plays to show a courtesan in a sympathetic light; it was well-known that much of the play was based on the tragic life of the famous Parisian courtesan, Marie Duplessis.

November 1: The Movie: Greta Garbo - Camille

Camille is a lavish, melodramatic love/tragedy of Hollywood's Golden Age. It was adapted from Dumas fils' 1852 novel/play, La Dame aux Camelias, the tale of the doomed romance of a courtesan in 19th century Paris. Greta Garbo's portrayal of the beautiful but sickly Parisian courtesan, who fatefully falls in love with a young Frenchman is considered the definitive film version of the Camille story.

November 8: The Ballet: John Neumeier - Die Kameliendame

John Neumeier adapted his ballet from novelist Alexandre Dumas's La Dame aux Camélias making fervent use of the music of Frédéric Chopin. The work tells of a couple who meet while attending a performance of Manon Lescaut and then engage in a passionate but tragic love affair. The work was premiered by the Stuttgart Ballet on November 4, 1987. The ballet has since been performed by leading ballet companies worldwide and has become a 20^th Century classic.

November 15: The Opera: Giuseppe Verdi - La Traviata

La traviata, is an opera in four acts by Verdi, inspired by Dumas, fils’ play which Verdi saw in 1852. The opera premiered at the Teatro la Fenice, in Venice, March 6, 1853. The title means literally “The Woman Who Strayed.” La traviata, owes much of its popularity to the heroine, Violetta, a tragic, beautiful, noble, young woman doomed to die an early death. The vocal demands of the role are formidable; the soprano must have brilliant coloratura, a long legato line and a convincing speaking voice. In Act I Violetta is a vibrant party girl madly in love with the dashing Alfredo. In Act II she is a serious young woman who gains the sympathy of Alfredo’s father. In Act III she is a bed-ridden consumptive whose last breath ends the opera.

South Pacific Auditions

July 13 & 14 | The Academy of Dance in SLO

Opera San Luis Obispo (OperaSLO) is holding Auditions for its 2019 full-production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical, South Pacific. This production will have 2 matinee performances in Miossi Hall of the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo on October 12th and 13th. This production of South Pacific represents a “Grand” and rare performance opportunity featuring full sets, costumes, ballet, chorus, and accompanied by the full OperaSLO Grand Orchestra. The production will be stage directed by Zach Johnson, choreographed by Drew Silvaggio, and with music direction by Brian Asher Alhadeff (General and Artistic Director of OperaSLO).

GENERAL AUDITION FORMAT:

Candidates open to a variety of roles must prepare 32 bars of a song from or in the style of the show. If using sheet music, an Accompanist will be provided. If using a cd or phone, a speaker will be provided. There will be NO Acapella auditions. You may be asked to read a side from the show as well.

LEADING AND COVER ROLE AUDITION FORMAT:

The role of Emil de Becque has been cast. Cover roles will be offered. Candidates only interested in specific leading roles must prepare the following audition:
Nellie Forbush: “A Wonderful Guy”
Lt. Joseph Cable: “Younger Than Springtime”
Bloody Mary: “Bali Ha’i” and “Happy Talk”.

● All Roles are competitively paid.

● Rehearsals are to start in Mid September with a Company Meeting in late August.

● Auditions (by appointment) will be held on Saturday 7/13/19 from 2pm – 7pm and Sunday 7/14/19 from 10am-2pm. They will be located at The Academy of Dance located at 3422 Miguelito Ct in San Luis Obispo.

● Callbacks/Dance Call (if necessary) will be on Sunday from 3pm-6pm at the Academy of Dance

● We will see walk-up auditions in the order they arrived as time allows

● For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact Zach Johnson at zacharylainejohnson@gmail.com.

Get full information about the audition here!

Broadway By The Sea

Saturday, August 10 | The Chapman Estate in Shell Beach

Summertime on the Central Coast means Broadway By The Sea at the Chapman Estate in Shell Beach. Now celebrating 22 years, Broadway By The Sea is a spectacular elegant outdoor concert fundraiser for Opera San Luis Obispo. This year we are proud to bring you a nationally acclaimed quintet of performers singing Broadway hits from Guys and Dolls, Carousel, Music Man, Show Boat, Into The Woods, Company, and several others hit titles including a special South Pacific sneak peak!

We are excited to welcome soprano, Katie McTyre, baritone Brayden Hade, and pianist Hanni Yi; each making their OperaSLO debut, and joining returning favorites soprano Shira Renee Thomas (Magic Flute, 2018), tenor Drew Schufman and Dylan F. Thomas (Magic Flute, Oklahoma!, 2018).

Doors open at 1pm and concert begins at 2pm. Arrive early, picnic with friends, bid on silent auction treasures, stroll the gardens, observe plein air painters and marvel at the breathtaking views from this historic estate. Ticket price includes complimentary wine tasting from Opolo Vineyards, pool-side appetizers, and Chuck Hiigel's Beer Garden! Elegant box lunches are available by Chipwrecked. General admission $70, table seating $90, and $720 for reserved tables of parties of 8.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Click below to watch a video of last year's Broadway by the Sea!

Broadway On The Lake

SOLD OUT | Sunday, August 11

This show is sold out!

Opera San Luis Obispo brings fantastic Broadway to North County's Atascadero Lake Pavilion! Join us for an afternoon of great musical theatre with Opera San Luis Obispo's first Broadway On The Lake! We are thrilled to present a nationally acclaimed quintet of performers: sopranos Shira Renee Thomas and Katie McTyre, tenor Dylan Scott Thomas, baritone Brayden Hade, and pianist Chris Wade performing Broadway hits from Guys and Dolls, Carousel, Music Man, Show Boat, Into The Woods, Company, and several others hit titles including a special South Pacific sneak preview to OperaSLO's grand production this October!

Sunday, August 11, 2019 4pm
at the Atascadero Lake Pavilion,Atascadero, CA

MET Live in HD: TURANDOT

Sunday, October 20, 2pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849. Box office times here.

Franco Zeffirelli’s celebrated production of Turandot is set in China, involving Turnadot’s suitor, Prince Calaf, who must solve three riddles to obtain permission to marry her and defy death. Calaf passes the test, but because Turandot still refuses to marry him, he offers her a challenge: if she learns his name before the next dawn, he agrees to die at daybreak.

Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts Christine Goerke as Turnadot. As Calàf, Roberto Aronica sings the famed aria “Nessun dorma.” Eleonora Buratto is the slave girl Liù, and James Morris is Calàf’s long-lost father, Timur.

Sung in Italian with English, German, Spanish, and Italian subtitles.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME: 3 HRS 2 MINS, 2 intermissions - READ SYNOPSIS

Sponsored by Bill and Carol Rust

MET Live in HD: MANON

Sunday, November 3, 2pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849. Box office times here.

A take on the quintessentially French tale of the beautiful young woman who is incapable of forsaking both love and luxury, Massenet’s Manon features one of the truly unforgettable, irresistible, and archetypal female characters in opera. While the story is firmly set in class and gender issues of the past, the character of Manon herself is timeless, convincing, and familiar.

Exhilarating soprano Lisette Oropesa stars as the irresistible title character, the tragic beauty who yearns for the finer things in life, in Laurent Pelly’s revealing production. Tenor Michael Fabiano is the besotted Chevalier des Grieux, whose desperate love for Manon proves their undoing. Maurizio Benini conducts Massenet’s sensual score.

Sung in French with English, German, and Spanish subtitles.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME: 3 HRS 52 MINS, 2 intermissions

Sponsored by Francesca Fairbrother and Barbara Murphy

MET Live in HD: MADAMA BUTTERFLY

Sunday, December 1, 2pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849. Box office times here.

The title character of Madama Butterfly—a young Japanese geisha who clings to the belief that her arrangement with a visiting American naval officer is a loving and permanent marriage—is one of the defining roles in opera. The story triggers ideas about cultural and sexual imperialism for people far removed from the opera house, and film, Broadway, and popular culture in general have riffed endlessly on it. The lyric beauty of Puccini’s score, especially the music for the thoroughly believable lead role, has made Butterfly timeless.

Soprano Hui He takes on the heartbreaking title role of the doomed geisha, with tenor Bruce Sledge as the American naval officer who abandons her. Paulo Szot is Sharpless, alongside Elizabeth DeShong as Suzuki, and Pier Giorgio Morandi is on the podium for Anthony Minghella's sweeping production, a perennial audience favorite.

Sung in Italian with English subtitles.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME: 3 HRS 12 MINS, 2 intermissions

Sponsored by Denis and Leona Sullivan

MET Live in HD: AKHNATEN

Sunday, January 12, 2pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849. Box office times here.

Aten, the sun god, is glorified by Akhnaten, his wife Nefertiti, and Queen Tye, his mother. As the trio makes its pronouncement at the window, the sun rises behind them. Akhnaten and Queen Tye begin to make the changes that he has promised. He leads a revolt to banish the old religion and replace it with his own.

Star countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo is Akhnaten with the striking mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges in her Met debut as Nefertiti. Karen Kamensek conducts in her Met debut that includes a virtuosic company of acrobats and jugglers.

Akhnaten is being performed with select subtitles only. The subtitles will set up the scene about to be performed. Certain vocal performances will also feature subtitles.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME: 2 HRS 21 MINS, 2 intermissions

Sponsored by Mary Baiamonte

MET Live in HD: The Gershwins' PORGY AND BESS

Sunday, February 9, 2pm | Performing Arts Center SLO

To order tickets by phone, call (805) 756-4849. Box office times here.

The Gershwins' Porgy & Bess tells the story of Porgy, a disabled black street-beggar living in the slums of Charleston, who attempts to rescue Bess from the clutches of Crown, her violent and possessive lover, and Sportin’ Life, her drug dealer.

David Robertson conducts a dynamic cast, featuring the sympathetic duo of Eric Owens and Angel Blue in the title roles and an all-star ensemble that includes Golda Schultz, Latonia Moore, Denyce Graves, Frederick Ballentine, Alfred Walker, and Ryan Speedo Green.

Sung in English with English, German, and Spanish subtitles.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME: 3 HRS 15 MINS, 1 intermission - READ SYNOPSIS

Sponsored by John & Alison Denlinger and John & Elizabeth Rolph

THE THREE SOPRANOS - SOLD OUT

Sunday, February 9, 5PM | D’Anbino Vineyards and Cellars Paso Robles

THE THREE SOPRANOS (February 9, 2020 5-8 p.m. D’Anbino Vineyards and Cellars 710 Pine Street Paso Robles, CA 93446) is a fantastic trio of divas that will take you on a vocal journey from Broadway to the MET. Sopranos Alba Franco-Cancél, Amy Goymerac, Mezzo Soprano Karen Dunn and pianist extraordinaire Paul Woodring are internationally acclaimed artists, and residing here on the Central Coast! This evening of fun and frolic promises to delight you and your guests with popular show tunes, Broadway hits, and opera favorites narrated by Maestro Brian Asher Alhadeff! Don’t miss this exciting event. Wine and food pairing will be available for purchase.

SOLD OUT

Paso Robles House Party Recital with Wendy and Thad Tuck

SATURDAY - August 5, 2023 | 5pm-8pm

This stop on our 39th Season "Opera & Broadway Road Trip" brings opera and Broadway lovers to the home of Wendy and Thad Tuck, in an intimate house party featuring OperaSLO Resident and Guest artists accompanied by pianist Paul Woodring. Music includes songs and arias from West Side Story, Don Giovanni, Oliver!, Eugene Onigen, and other famous titles. Dinner and wine included. Limited Seating - Tickets $100.