Overview
Founded in 1971, Arizona Opera is a professional, non-profit opera company based in the state of Arizona. The company presents a variety of fully-staged opera productions each season in both Phoenix and Tucson. The repertoire ranges from classic works to contemporary pieces, and even includes world premieres.
Location
The Arizona Opera has two primary performance venues:
In Phoenix:
– Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004
In Tucson:
– Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701
The administrative offices and the Arizona Opera Center, which includes a black box performance venue, are located at:
– 1636 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004
Website
For more information about the Arizona Opera, upcoming performances, and ticketing, you can visit the official website: https://www.azopera.org/
Performances
The Arizona Opera produces a diverse range of operas, from classics by composers like Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi to contemporary works and world premieres. The company is known for its high-quality productions that feature talented singers, beautiful sets and costumes, and live orchestral accompaniment.
In addition to its mainstage productions, the Arizona Opera also hosts a variety of other performances and events, including recitals, lectures, and educational programs.
Education and Outreach
The Arizona Opera has a strong commitment to education and community outreach. The company offers a variety of programs designed to bring opera to a wider audience, including student performances, school residencies, and masterclasses. They also host pre-performance lectures to provide audiences with insights into each opera.
Arizona Opera Studio
The Arizona Opera Studio is a professional artist development program that provides training and performance opportunities for emerging operatic talent. Studio artists have the opportunity to perform in mainstage productions, recitals, and community events, and receive coaching in musical style, acting, and career development.
The Arizona Opera is a vital part of Arizona’s cultural landscape, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to experience the power and beauty of opera. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or new to the art form, the Arizona Opera offers a range of performances and events that are sure to captivate and inspire.
History
The Arizona Opera was founded in 1971 by a dedicated group of opera enthusiasts. Its inaugural season featured two operas, and since then, the company has grown in size and stature. Today, it presents five operatic productions each season, performing in both Phoenix and Tucson to reach a state-wide audience.
The Arizona Opera is unique among opera companies in the United States, as it serves two different metropolitan areas. This has allowed it to have a broad impact on the cultural life of the state.
Impact on the Local Arts Scene
The Arizona Opera has significantly enriched the local arts scene. It introduces audiences to a wide range of operatic works, from beloved classics to innovative new productions. The company is known for its high production values, featuring stunning sets, costumes, and lighting, as well as exceptional musical and dramatic performances.
The company also frequently collaborates with other local arts organizations, contributing to a vibrant and interconnected arts community.
Arizona Opera Studio
One of the key components of the Arizona Opera’s mission is the cultivation of new talent. The Arizona Opera Studio provides a bridge for young singers between their academic training and professional careers.
Studio artists receive intensive coaching and training, as well as the opportunity to perform in mainstage productions and community events. This program not only helps to launch the careers of promising young artists but also ensures that the company has a steady supply of fresh talent for its productions.
Community Engagement and Education
The Arizona Opera is committed to making opera accessible to a broad audience. Through its education and outreach programs, it introduces thousands of students each year to the world of opera, fostering an appreciation for the art form among the next generation of audience members.
It also offers a range of community engagement initiatives, such as pre-performance lectures, community concerts, and open rehearsals, bringing opera into the community and inviting the community into the world of opera.
In conclusion, the Arizona Opera is a vibrant and vital part of Arizona’s cultural landscape. Its high-quality productions, commitment to education and community engagement, and dedication to nurturing new talent all contribute to its mission of producing great operatic performances for all Arizonans. Whether you’re a long-time opera lover or a newcomer to the art form, the Arizona Opera offers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy and learn about opera.
