MARYLAND OPERA STUDIO PERFORMANCES
The Maryland Opera Studio is committed to providing all studio members with a wide variety of performance opportunities. Operas are chosen based on the needs and abilities of the second-year class and each member leaves having sung two full roles with orchestra.
This Season
New Work Reading
Orgullo
February 9, 2024
The Maryland Opera Studio presents Orgullo, a mythical exploration of 7 legends surrounding Mexican President Santa Anna during the height of the American invasion of Mexico.
Fall Opera
Albert Herring
November 11-15, 2023
Britten explores societal norms, self-discovery and the power of individuality in this opera filled with eccentric characters, a clever libretto and a touch of mischief.
Spring Opera
Florencia en el Amazonas
April 13-21, 2024
Journey down the Amazon River aboard the steamboat El Dorado in Daniel Catán’s opera, inspired by the magical realism found in the works of Gabriel Garcia Márquez.
New Work Reading
New work has been a central part of the Maryland Opera Studio since its start in 1989. Since 2014, the studio has commissioned new operas to be written for the incoming class of first-year studio members. The libretto and music are workshopped in the fall semester with singers and creators working side-by-side. The spring semester begins with a semi-staged workshop performance of this commission, providing singers with unmatched experience and insight into premiering new work.
Fall Opera
The fall opera allows second-year students to build upon the acting classes and character work explored in the first year of study in the context of performing a full role with orchestra. This production uses minimal sets and costumes, focusing on the art at its most elemental—the singer, the story and the music.
Spring Opera
In their final semester, second-year studio members each perform a role in this fully produced opera with orchestra. This spring opera brings together all the skills students have gained during their time with the studio. First-year students are often cast in smaller roles and sing in the chorus. Working with designers from the School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies, this production provides a fully collaborative experience.