This weekend is all about variety with some companies showcasing perennial classics and three others showing modern works with tremendous socio-political relevance.

Das Rheingold – Arizona Opera 

Opera Arizona will showcase the first installment in Wagner’s famed tetralogy with Mark Delavan as Wotan, Rodell Rosel as Loge, Richard Paul Fink as Alberich, Daveda Karanas as Fricka, and Dana Beth Miller as Erda. Performances will take place at Symphony Hall in Phoenix on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Out of Darkness: Two Remain – The Atlanta Opera

Jake Heggie’s latest opera makes it world premiere run this weekend with performances on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The work will be directed by Tomer Zvulun, The Atlanta Opera’s General and Artistic Director. Performances take place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 

Soldier Songs – Beth Morrison Projects, Fargo-Moorhead Opera

Fargo-Moorhead Opera showcases “Soldier Songs” for the first time on Friday and Sunday. The David T. Little opera stars Christopher Burchett and will feature film work from Bill Morrison, all under the direction of Ashley Tata. The performance will be produced by Beth Morrison Projects with Todd Reynolds conducting. 

Norma – Opera Southwest

On Sunday, Opera Southwest showcases Bellini’s perennial masterwork with Lindsay Ohse taking on the iconic role. The work will be making its New Mexico Premiere on Sunday, April 8, 2018, at 2 p.m. 

I Dream – Toledo Opera

The Toledo Opera showcases a work that reflects on the final hours of Martin Luther King, Jr. the work will get its performances on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with a cast that includes Derrick Davis, Laquita Mitchell, and Kristy Swann among others.