OPERA BUDDIES
Opera Buddies participants get “hands on” with costume elements from 2023’s Macbeth.
Whether you’re 17 or 70, if you’ve ever been curious about opera, but unsure where to start or what to listen for, you’re invited to join Opera Buddies — an opera discovery program for teens and adults. You’ll connect with other lifelong learners interested in broadening their cultural horizons or deepening their love of opera.
Each Opera Buddies session is comprised of four experiences: first, two classes introduce you to opera and prepare you for what you’re going to see. You’ll learn what to expect at the theatre, as well as insights into what to watch and listen for at the show. Then you’ll attend the dress rehearsal as a group, an exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunity to see how an opera comes together. The final gathering is a guided reflection on the opera you just saw as well as suggestions for taking your learning further.
As Calgary Opera’s flagship community engagement initiative, each class is facilitated by a professional opera teaching artist from Calgary Opera.
Opera Buddies is perfect for friends or families who want to explore the arts together and guaranteed to have you talking around the dinner table.
Pressed for time but still interested in diving deeper into opera? Check out Unpacking Opera, our single-session discussions leading up to each main performance.
Opera Buddies participants after attending 2023’s The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs.
OPERA BUDDIES SESSIONS
Locations
Opera Buddies sessions:
McDougall United Church
8516 Athabasca St. SE
Dress rehearsals:
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
1415 14 Ave NE
Session Information
Sessions are on Thursdays at 4:30 pm
Dress rehearsals are on the Thursday before opening night at 7 pm
2025/26 Sessions
Session 1: Madama Butterfly
October 16: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
October 23: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
October 30: 7:00-9:30 pm - Jubilee Auditorium (dress rehearsal)
November 6: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
Session 2: Hansel & Gretel
January 15: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
January 22: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
January 29: 7:00-9:30 pm - Jubilee Auditorium (dress rehearsal)
February 5: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
Session 3: The Barber of Seville
April 2: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
April 9: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
April 16: 7:00-9:30 pm - Jubilee Auditorium (dress rehearsal)
April 23: 4:30-5:45 pm - McDougall United
OPERA BUDDIES FAQ:
How many sessions can I sign up for?
As many as you’d like! Sessions are geared toward those with limited familiarity with opera, but you are welcome to attend as many as you’d like. After your first completed session, you are eligible to become an Opera Buddies Ambassador.
Do I have to come to all four classes?
Because programming is tailored to participants' unique backgrounds and interests, we ask that you commit to attending all three classes and the performance for any Opera Buddies session you register for.
How much does the program cost?
Opera Buddies is $20 for a four-class session (plus a 3.5% service fee), which includes one ticket to the dress rehearsal for your performance at the Jubilee Auditorium. Many Opera Buddies choose to also attend the public performance—this is optional but welcomed, and a great way to round out your experience. Your concert ticket for the public performance, should you choose to attend, is sold separately.
How do I sign up?
Reach out via email to register:
Stephania Romaniuk, Director of Learning & Engagement
E-Mail
You will be contacted by Calgary Opera to complete payment and choose your seat at the dress rehearsal.
What are Opera Buddies Ambassadors?
If you have completed at least one Opera Buddies session, you are eligible to attend future dress rehearsals with a guest for $20 each. We encourage you to bring newcomers to the opera, and continue exploring this art form together! To take advantage of this offer, contact Audience Services at 403-262-7286.
For more information about Opera Buddies, please contact:
Stephania Romaniuk, Director of Learning & Engagement
E-Mail