January is more than halfway done and a lot of companies are starting up again with unique performances. This week’s picks center on works composed in the 20th century and beyond, with one exception. Here’s the list (in alphabetical order by company). 

As One – Alamo City Opera

For two nights (Saturday and Sunday), Laura Kaminsky, Mark Campbell, and Kimberly Reeds’ “As One” takes the stage with a cast that includes Liz Bouk in the role of Hanna After. Bouk is a renowned transgender artist and seeing him in this role will be a unique and truly fascinating experience. 

Florencia en El Amazonas – Houston Grand Opera

Daniel Catán’s masterpiece opens at Houston Grand Opera with a cast headlined by Ana María Martínez. Martínez has become a major interpreter of the role and any chance to hear this sublime opera makes it essential for any lover of the art form. Performances kick off on Friday with a matinee showcase on Sunday, Jan. 20. 

Pelléas et Mélisande – Metropolitan Opera

On Saturday night, audiences will get a chance to experience Debussy’s undeniable masterpiece with a cast that stars Isabel Leonard and Paul Appleby as the doomed lovers. The work is a rarity on the Met stage, so any chance to see it definitely merits a trip to the opera.

Carmen – Opera Carolina

On Saturday and Sunday, Opera Carolina will give its own rendition of Bizet’s famed masterpiece with Alyson Cambridge headlining the production. Dario Vietri will be her lover Don José and Christine Pier will star as Micaëla. 

The Little Prince – Utah Opera

On Saturday, the Utah Opera will showcase performances of Rachel Portman and Nicholas Wright’s increasingly popular adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s famed tale. James Lowe conducts a performance that will star Jared Bybee and Nitai Fluchel, the latter as The Little Prince.