The Portland Opera provides many opportunities for you to become more familiar with the operas we are presenting on the mainstage, as well as the many wonderous factes of this art form. 

Destination Opera

The 2008/09 opera season welcomes back a lecture series: Destination Opera.  For each production there will be an exciting event to provide you with more information on the production you will be seeing and to offer you some new ideas on how life integrates itself in opera.

The event brings General Director Christopher Mattaliano together with conductors, directors, designers and the occasional singer to provide you with an insider’s look at the upcoming production.  These events will cover the concept, design, music and history behind the producing of this opera.

Opera is suggestive—music and visuals combine to remind you of intangibles you didn’t know you knew, feelings you didn’t know you had, vistas you didn’t know you were ready to explore. Destination Opera would like to guide you down a meandering path to a deeper appreciation of opera, history, philosophy, psychology and art.  Join us on the scenic route!

Opera Previews

Opera Previews are held a week prior to opening night at the Multnomah County Central Library, in the US Bank room. Chorus Master Robert Ainsley is often joined by members of our Studio Artists program to tantalize you with music and insightful information regarding our upcoming productions.

Would You Like an Aria with Those Fries?

Join General Director Christopher Mattaliano and other members of the artistic staff in this lively bring-your-lunch noontime presentation. Held on the first Friday of each month at the Multnomah County Central Library, you will discover the glories of opera and classical music, glimpse the inner workings of an opera company, chat with members of the chorus and orchestra as well as preview upcoming operas for the season.

Opera Insights

Opera Insights precede each performance held at the Keller Auditorium.  These free half-hour lectures with local musicologist Bob Kingston are provided to give you a better understanding of the opera and all that surrounds it.  The lecture begins one hour before the performance begins and is held in the box level of the theater.

Backtalk

Shortly after each performance, join General Director Christopher Mattaliano, along with conductors, directors, and performers for a lively Q&A session.  It’s your chance to ask any questions about the performance you've just enjoyed.

Other Community Events

Throughout the season there will be additional concerts, previews and discussions regarding our current and upcoming seasons.  Please check our Upcoming Events page to find out more, or sign up for OperaBuzz and receive news and information straight to your inbox.

Student and Adult Education

For more information and to arrange a talk or workshop with your organization or school, please contact Alexis Hamilton, Manager of Education and Outreach.