OPERA BUDDIES
Opera Buddies participants get “hands on” with costume elements from 2023’s Macbeth.
WHAT IS OPERA BUDDIES?
Whether you’re 17 or 70, if you’ve ever been curious about opera, but unsure where to start or what to listen for, you’re invited to join Opera Buddies - an intergenerational opera discovery program for youth, adults, and older adults. You’ll connect with other lifelong learners of all ages interested in broadening their musical horizons or deepening their love of opera.
Each Opera Buddies session begins with two classes: an introduction to opera as well as a primer on the opera you’ll be going to see. You’ll learn what to expect at the theatre, as well as insights into what to watch and listen for at the show.
Then, come to the opera and watch the performance with a live orchestra, soloists, and chorus.
To make the most of your experience, the final class is a guided reflection on the opera you just saw as well as suggestions for taking your learning further.
Each class is facilitated by a professional opera teaching artist from Calgary Opera.
Opera Buddies is perfect for friends or families who want to explore the arts together and guaranteed to have you talking around the dinner table.
Opera Buddies participants pose for a photo after attending 2023’s The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs.
2024/25 OPERA BUDDIES SESSIONS
LOCATIONS
Classes take place at:
McDougall United Church
8516 Athabasca St. SE
Dress Rehearsals take place at:
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
1415 14 Ave NE
SESSION INFO
Sessions are on Thursdays at 4:30 pm
Dress Rehearsals are on the Thursday before opening night at 7pm
Upcoming 2024-25 Sessions
Bluebeard’s Castle & Gianni Schicchi
March 20: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
March 27: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
April 3: 7:00-9:30 pm Jubilee Auditorium
April 10: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
Upcoming 2025-26 Sessions
Madama Butterfly
October 16: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
October 23: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
October 30: 7:00-9:30 pm Jubilee Auditorium
November 6: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
Hansel & Gretel
January 15: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
January 22: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
January 29: 7:00-9:30 pm Jubilee Auditorium
February 5: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
The Barber of Seville
April 2: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
April 9: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
April 16: 7:00-9:30 pm Jubilee Auditorium
April 23: 4:30-5:45 pm McDougall United
OPERA BUDDIES FAQ:
How many sessions can I sign up for?
As many as you’d like! Sessions are geared toward those with limited familiarity with opera, but you are welcome to attend as many as you’d like. After your first completed session, you are eligible to become an Opera Buddies Ambassador.
Do I have to come to all 4 classes?
Because programming is tailored to participants' unique backgrounds and interests, we ask that you commit to attending all three classes and the performance for any Opera Buddies session you register for.
How much does this program cost?
Opera Buddies is $20 for a four-class session.
How do I sign up?
Click the link below to register. Once your form is submitted, you will be contacted by Calgary Opera to complete payment and choose your seats at the dress rehearsal.
What are Opera Buddies Ambassadors?
If you have completed at least one Opera Buddies session, you are eligible to attend Dress Rehearsals with a guest for $20 each. We encourage you to bring newcomers to the opera, and continue exploring this art form together! To take advantage of this offer, contact Audience Services at 403-262-7286.
For more information about Opera Buddies, please contact
Stephania Romaniuk
Director of Learning & Engagement
E-Mail