Great cities need great art—and Opera Colorado has brought world-class opera to Denver and beyond since our founding in 1981. In addition to our mainstage performances at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House each season, we affirm our commitment to the future of the art form by exploring in-person and digital initiatives outside of the opera house; annually presenting new works; with our nationally recognized Artist in Residence Program that trains the next generation of opera performers; and by each year reaching more than 45,000 students and adults through our statewide education and community programs.
By Charles Gounod February 2026-May 2026 For Community Groups
Experience the timeless story of Shakespeare’s classic! The original star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet come from different families who would never approve of their union. While things don’t entirely work out for Romeo and Juliet, their love and sacrifice ultimately inspire the families to stop warring and seek forgiveness. Sung primarily in English, with portions in French, Gounod’s opera and the original Shakespeare play weave together in a seamless adaptation. This performance is a great way to connect audiences to opera with a timeless plot.
Madama Butterfly makes its highly anticipated return to Opera Colorado, bringing Puccini’s emotionally charged masterpiece to the stage. Performed in Italian, with English and Spanish subtitles at every seat. Estimated Length: 2 hours 55 minutes *Join us one hour prior to each performance at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House for a free and insightful pre-performance lecture.
Directer: Mo Zhou Chorus Master: Sahar Nouri Conductor: Ari Pelto
By Charles Gounod February 2026-May 2026 For Community Groups
Experience the timeless story of Shakespeare’s classic! The original star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet come from different families who would never approve of their union. While things don’t entirely work out for Romeo and Juliet, their love and sacrifice ultimately inspire the families to stop warring and seek forgiveness. Sung primarily in English, with portions in French, Gounod’s opera and the original Shakespeare play weave together in a seamless adaptation. This performance is a great way to connect audiences to opera with a timeless plot.
Madama Butterfly makes its highly anticipated return to Opera Colorado, bringing Puccini’s emotionally charged masterpiece to the stage. Performed in Italian, with English and Spanish subtitles at every seat. Estimated Length: 2 hours 55 minutes *Join us one hour prior to each performance at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House for a free and insightful pre-performance lecture.
Directer: Mo Zhou Chorus Master: Sahar Nouri Conductor: Ari Pelto
La traviata opens Opera Colorado’s 2025-26 Season, inviting audiences to discover why it remains one of the most beloved operas of all time. Violetta is an ailing courtesan who experiences true love for the first time, only to be met with cruel obstacles. Set against the backdrop of glamorous 1850s Paris, La traviata is filled with unforgettable melodies, including the rousing “Drinking Song” and the sorrowful “Addio, del passato.” Don’t miss this poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption, brought to life with Verdi’s exquisite music