Opera

SFCV’s perceptive writers report on topics relevant to opera.

Janos Gereben - July 16, 2024

The latest talented group of Merolini, on their way to stardom, wows an appreciative audience.

Jason Victor Serinus - July 2, 2024

The opera here sports a powerful cast and Mark Elder conducting a fully committed London Symphony Orchestra.

Richard S. Ginell - July 1, 2024

This version of the opera, captured in concerts with the LA Phil last year, improves on any live performance.

Victoria Looseleaf - July 1, 2024

The Walnut Creek company is staging Francis Poulenc’s La voix humaine in dialogue with Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas.

Nicholas Jones - June 25, 2024

Christopher Alden’s witty production is matched with brilliant singing and acting in this top-notch staging.

Janos Gereben - June 24, 2024

Expect the usual innovative approaches to subject matter and staging, especially in the long-awaited new production of Harvey Milk.

Lisa Hirsch - June 24, 2024

In its West Coast premiere, Gregory Spears’s opera about two closeted gay men is a moving reminder of what’s always at stake with love.

Richard S. Ginell - June 24, 2024

The composer’s latest opera, recorded shortly after its 2023 premiere, has a spare but intriguing setup.

Steven Winn - June 18, 2024

The company’s current production of Otto Nicolai’s 1849 singspiel might have just a little too much of everything.

Lev Mamuya - June 17, 2024

Played simultaneously on a rotating turntable, the double production invites speculation on power relations and much more.