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News

Virginia Opera, Denyce Graves Foundation Join Forces for ‘Voices Forward’ Vocal Arts Residency

https://operawire.com/virginia-opera-denyce-graves-foundation-join-forces-for-voices-forward-vocal-arts-residency/

Virginia Opera, The Denyce Graves Foundation, Norfolk State University and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra have announced “Voices Forward,” a collaborative vocal arts residency for emerging singers that will run from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1, 2026. The residency will bring together aspiring singers, educators and industry professionals for programming focused on artistic excellence, professional development, mentorship and community engagement. It {…}

News

Obituary: Virginia Opera Founder Edythe C. Harrison Dies at 91

https://operawire.com/obituary-virginia-opera-founder-edythe-c-harrison-dies-at-91/

On Sept. 1, 2026, the founder of Virginia Opera Edythe C. Harrison died at the age of 91. The opera company announced the news via social media and said “Virginia Opera mourns the passing of Edythe C. Harrison, a remarkable public servant, civic leader, and devoted champion of the arts. Mrs. Harrison’s vision and leadership helped shape Virginia Opera and {…}

News, Season Announcement

Kathryn Lewek, Alexandra LoBianco, Kevin Thompson, & Symone Harcum Star in Virginia Opera’s 2026-27 Season

https://operawire.com/kathryn-lewek-alexandra-lobianco-kevin-thompson-symone-harcum-star-in-virginia-operas-2026-27-season/

Virginia Opera announces its 2026-27 season. Adam Turner conducts the Virginia Symphony Orchestra in Leoncavallo’s “Pagliacci,” starring Kathryn Lewek and Sarah Tucker as Nedda with Zach Borichevsky as Canio. Kidon Choi, Hunter Enoch, and Carlos Ahrens are also among the cast led by Kyle Lang. Performance Dates: Nov. 6 -22, 2026 (Norfolk, Richmond, & Fairfax) Brandon Eldredge conducts Humperdinck’s “Hansel and {…}

News

Virginia Opera Reveals 2026-2027 Herndon Foundation Emerging Artists

https://operawire.com/virginia-opera-reveals-2026-2027-herndon-foundation-emerging-artists/

Virginia Opera has announced its 2026-2027 class of Herndon Foundation Emerging Artists. This year, the program welcomed nine singers and collaborative pianist Oleg Bellini for a season of performances and mentorship. Returning to the program are soprano Maggie Kinabrew, mezzo soprano Melanie Dubil, and Bellini. Kinabrew will make her role debut as Gretel in “Hansel and Gretel” this season, while {…}

Reviews, Stage Reviews

Virginia Opera 2025-26 Review: Aida

https://operawire.com/virginia-opera-2025-26-review-aida/

  Those accustomed to the grandeur of larger houses like the Metropolitan Opera might approach a performance at the Virginia Opera with moderated expectations, but the company proves such caution unnecessary. While the scale may be smaller and simpler, Virginia Opera consistently delivers excellent vocal talents and imaginative stagings that make the most of their admittedly limited budget. This season’s {…}

News

Virginia Opera to Offer Complimentary Tickets to Those Affected by Shutdown

https://operawire.com/virginia-opera-to-offer-compolimentary-tickets-to-those-affected-by-shutdown/

Virginia Opera has announced complimentary tickets during the shutdown. The company said that in response to the ongoing government shutdown, it is extending a special offer of complimentary tickets to its upcoming production of “Cinderella” for individuals directly affected by the closure. Eligible patrons will have the opportunity to reserve up to two free tickets per person to attend performances {…}

News

Virginia Opera to Showcase ‘One Hour – Three Acts #NoFilter’

https://operawire.com/virginia-opera-to-showcase-one-hour-three-acts-nofilter/

Virginia Opera will present the “One Hour – Three Acts #NoFilter” on Sept. 26, 2025 and Oct. 3, 2025. The showcase, which is part of the Variation Series, will feature three new English-language operas including Christopher Weiss and John de los Santso’ “Service Proider,” a satire on the culture of tech-obsession in the context of an anniversary dinner. Also on {…}

Business

Virginia Opera Names New General Director & CEO

https://operawire.com/virginia-opera-names-new-general-director-ceo/

Virginia Opera has named John-Paul Schaefer to the position of General Director and CEO, effective July 1, 2025. He previously served six months as Interim General Director, managing the company through the world premiere of “Loving v. Virginia.” “I am honored to be entrusted with this role at such an important moment for Virginia Opera,” said Schaefer, whose previous experience {…}

Business, News

Adam Turner Extends Contract with Virginia Opera

https://operawire.com/adam-turner-extends-contract-with-virginia-opera/

Virginia Opera has announced the contract extension of Adam Turner as Artistic Director and Chief Conductor through the 2027-2028 season. Turner has served as Artistic Director since 2018 and has been a driving force behind Virginia Opera’s continued artistic growth and national recognition. In a statement, Mike Lott, Chair of the Board, said, “Adam’s leadership has positioned Virginia Opera as {…}