Hawai’i Opera Theatre has announced that this year’s opera education programs will be going online, with the company set to present a double bill of free digital experiences for viewers across the islands and beyond.

First will be one of Mozart’s earliest operas, “Bastien & Bastienne,” which will be presented through the new HOT Digital platform. The work will also include a number of educational resources that teachers and parents can integrate into their curriculum.

Next is the company’s production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s “The Mikado,” starring members of the Orvis Opera Studio and Orvis Young Voices Studio. Created with local filmmaker Ryan Ishii, this work comes in lieu of the organization’s usual Opera Express productions which would tour throughout schools and venues in Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and The Big Island. Viewing will be available with free registration.

Audiences can also access past HOT Education programming, such as the virtual production of “The Pirates of Penzance,” and the HOT Mele Concerts. The Spring Education Series will be available from March 22 through May 22, 2021.

“While the past year has been very challenging in so many ways, it has provided opportunities to work in new ways, learn new skills, and examine those things that are important to us.” writes Erik Haines, HOT Director of Education Programs.  “We have been able to explore the performance of opera digitally, created locally, using local talent – many whom would be other places around the planet but instead are home in the islands waiting for live opera and theatre to resume. We hope you enjoy these charming new productions of these lyric theatre favorites whether it be in your classroom, or at home with your family.”