Opera has always been a passion of mine—a unique and captivating art form that combines the best of music, drama, and visual design. Yet, for many, opera feels intimidating, like an exclusive club where only the most sophisticated are welcome. My goal is to dispel that myth and invite you to see opera for what it truly is: a profoundly moving and deeply human experience.

For those who are new to opera, I often hear the same concerns: “I don’t understand the language,” or, “Isn’t it too formal?” It’s natural to feel hesitant when encountering something unfamiliar, but opera is simply storytelling set to music—a universal language of its own. If you love theater, music, or even a good story, there’s an opera out there for you. Opera is the ultimate multimedia art form. From the soaring voices and intricate set designs to the drama and emotion on stage, there’s something to intrigue and captivate everyone.

While recordings of opera can be beautiful, there’s nothing quite like experiencing it live. There’s an unparalleled energy that comes from being in the same space as the performers and audience. The voices of opera singers, trained for years to sing without amplification, have an extraordinary ability to connect directly with the listener. The voices can be immensely powerful—like being enveloped in waves of sound.

Each performance is unique. Even if you see the same opera multiple times, no two shows are identical. The interaction between the performers, the music, and the audience creates a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s this alchemy of talent and emotion that makes opera so unforgettable.

When introducing someone to opera, I recommend starting with your personal preferences. Do you enjoy comedy or drama? Are you drawn to traditional classics or modern storytelling? For a first-timer, accessible options like Die Fledermaus or Don Pasquale are always excellent choices. They combine humor, romance, and unforgettable music in ways that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.

For those who crave something different, more contemporary works like Philip Glass's Galileo Galilei offer a fresh take on opera. These productions explore modern themes, such as the intersection of faith and science, in ways that feel both relevant and thought-provoking.

Whatever your tastes, a conversation with the box office at your local opera company can help guide your decision. Their insights can steer you toward performances that suit your interests, whether you're looking for vibrant and colorful staging or something dark and introspective.

St. Louis is home to a thriving opera scene, with three companies offering diverse productions throughout the year. At Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, we pride ourselves on making opera accessible and inclusive. With $25 tickets and a number of free tickets available for every performance, we’re removing barriers and encouraging everyone to dip their toes into this transformative art form.

In 2025, we’ll be celebrating Opera Theatre’s 50th season with an exciting world premiere by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage and composer Ricky Ian Gordon. It’s moments like these—discovering something brand new—that remind us why opera continues to inspire.
 

If you’ve never been to an opera before, let this be your invitation to try. Whether it’s the music, the storytelling, or the artistry of the performers, opera offers something special to everyone willing to give it a chance. As we like to say: there are opera lovers, and there are people who don’t yet know they love opera.