The Bilbao Opera in Spain has confirmed that it will open its 2021-22 in October.

The season will open following health regulations, which will limit the seating capacity to 800 in Euskalduna Bilbao and 600 in the Teatro Arriaga. Social distancing will be in effect and all ticket holders will be forced to wear a mask at all times. Guidelines will be adjusted as conditions change throughout the season.

The season will open with a recital by Pretty Yende at the Euskalduna Bilbao accompanied by maestro Michele d’Elia in music by Bellini, Rossini, Donizetti, and Liszt.

Performance Date: Oct. 9, 2021

Offenbach’s “Les Contes d’Hoffmann” will return to the Bilbao Opera after two decades of absence. The production will be directed by Vincent Huguet and conducted by Carlo Montanaro. The production will star Michel Fabiano in the title role, Jessica Pratt, Simón Orfila, and Elena Zhidkova.

Performance Dates: Oct. 23-Nov. 1, 2021

“La caja de los juguetes” will open the ABAO Txiki at the Teatro Arriaga. The musical features music by Debussy and staging by Enrique Lanz.