Regional Opera Company of the Week: Seattle Opera

Seattle Opera has been one of the leading American opera companies since being founded in 1963. Presenting a mixture of European classics as well as new works of American opera, the company's five opera seasons continually advance the cultural life of the Pacific Northwest through education and performance. Seattle Opera strives to produce musically extraordinary, theatrically compelling operas by employing the highest quality casts, conductors, directors and designers. They have been so successful in this that they actually have the highest per capita attendance of any major opera company in the U.S. In addition to their mainstage productions however, the Company serves thousands more through its groundbreaking education programs, scenic rental program and other special projects.

Seattle Opera offers special programs for the young opera aficionados

Seattle Opera offers several programs for young opera performs and opera lovers. The Young Artist Program provides career guidance and training for young professional singers, typically between 22 and 32 years old. This intensive 21-week production-based curriculum includes acting training, master classes, auditions, networking, and complete role study. The Bravo! Club is another premiere organization for young people between the ages of 21-39. The members enjoy 50% discount on tickets, access to intermission lounges with complimentary wine and coffee, social events and a great way to meet other young opera fans.

A New Home for Seattle Opera

Since 2003 the Seattle Opera has made its home the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall. The Hall, opened on June 28, 2003 fulfills nearly ten years of hard work and dedication from the staffs of the Seattle Opera, Pacific Northwest Ballet and Seattle Center, each of calls the McCaw Hall home. This building was renovated around the original 1962 and 1927 buildings, of which was more than 70% replaced by new construction. Inside the new building there is now a new auditorium, lobbies, backstage, orchestra pit, and café.

Current Season

This year's season included many of the most famous European operas- Turandot, Fidelio, Cinderella, and La Bohème. There is one double bill left of the season coming up in May.

La Voix Humaine & Suor Angelica

By Francis Poulenc/Giacomo Puccini

May 4-May 18, 2013

In this exciting pair of Seattle Opera premieres two very different composers explore the fates of women who must come to grips with grave disappointment.

The excellence continues with next years season, including the Ring, The Daughter of the Regiment, Rigoletto, The Consul, and The Tales of Hoffmann. For more information about the company and or purchase tickets for thisyears season or the next visit http://www.seattleopera.org.