PERFORMANCES
Opera Roanoke (administrative offices housed in Center in the Square - performances held at various locations)
Southwest Virginia's only professional opera company, Opera Roanoke presents fully-staged productions and a variety of smaller-scale presentations each year. Steven White, Artistic Director of Opera Roanoke, has conducted nearly all of the company's productions since 1999 and is highly regarded for his inspirational leadership and musical integrity. One of America's most sought-after and respected conductors, Maestro White leads opera performances throughout the United States and abroad. Opera Roanoke has moved its offices into the Center in the Square facility in order to enhance its budgetary position, take advantage of in-house benefits, and to support a strategic cost-savings move by Center in the Square.
Guest artists of national and international distinction perform on the Opera Roanoke stage. Southwest Virginia's pool of talent is an integral part of the Opera Roanoke experience. The Roanoke Symphony is the official orchestra of Opera Roanoke. The Roanoke College Children's Choir, Roanoke Ballet Theater, and the Blacksburg Master Chorale are just some of the outstanding local organizations that frequently add luster to Opera Roanoke productions.
Educational and outreach programs and activities of Opera Roanoke allow persons of all ages and socio-economic levels to enhance their knowledge and enjoyment of opera. Teacher Resources offer information relative to performances with cross-curricular ideas for lessons that meet the Virginia Standards of Learning. Opera Roanoke also introduces local students to production cast members through in-school performances. These free programs offer opportunities for students to interact with singers while learning more about opera and its career opportunities.
Most significantly, Opera Roanoke is proud to offer the Sempre Libera Program - Free Admission for Students! This initiative encourages students of all ages to attend any performances entirely free of charge. Italian for "always free," Sempre Libera allows students the opportunity to experience an art form that encompasses everything young people love: high drama, thrilling music, sly humor and extravagant costumes regardless of ability to pay.