Opera Santa Barbara has announced its 2023-24 season.

“As we look forward to our 30th anniversary season, nothing makes me happier than to be able to announce that we will be returning to a two performance schedule for our Mainstage operas”, said Artistic and General Director Kostis Protopapas in an official press statement issued by the comapny. “While the environment for the performing arts remains challenging, Opera Santa Barbara is happy to be the bearer of good news. We are grateful for the support of the public and the donor community who have embraced our artistic and business choices in the past few years.  We look forward to a rich season of music theater that truly has something for everyone.”

The season kicks off with the “2023 Old Spanish Days Fiesta Parade.”

Performance Date: August 4, 2023

The first official production of the year will be “Carmen,” starring Sarah Saturnino, Nathan Granner, Colin Ramsey, and Anya Matanovic. Fenlon Lamb directs and Kostis Protopapas conducts.

Performance Dates: Sept. 29 & Oct. 1, 2023

Next up, Eleni Calenos and Jana McIntyre will star in a concert in honor of Maria Callas‘ 100th birthday anniversary. They will be joined by the Opera Santa Barbara Orchestra under Kostis Protopapas.

The event will be accompanied by a lecture on Callas’ life by biographer Helen Mattheopoulos on Nov. 8.

Performance Dates: Nov. 10 & 12, 2023

That will be followed up by the Chrisman Studio Artists presenting “El Gato con Botas.”

Performance Dates: Dec. 1 – 3, 2023

Kicking off 2024 will be a production of “Il Trovatore” starring Harold Meers, Karin Wolverton, Timothy Mix, Andrew Potter, and Deborah Nansteel. Chuck Hudson directs and Kostis Protopapas conducts.

Performance Dates: Feb. 9 & 11, 2024

Closing out the season will be “Zorro” by Hector Armienta. Xavier Prado, Oriana Falla, Kelly Guerra, and Bernardo Bermudez star. Anthony Barrese conducts and Octavio Cardenas directs.

Performance Dates: April 19 & 21, 2023