Spotlight Events
Get Closer to the Music
Spotlight Events are your backstage pass to the opera world — curated conversations, pop-up performances, and one-night-only experiences.
These events are always evolving, so check back for new moments to connect, celebrate, and explore the art beyond the mainstage.
Mark Your Calendar
Tap or click a date to learn more about each Spotlight event.
Take One: Macbeth
Sunday, November 1, 2026
4:00 – 6:30 PM
The best-kept secret in town: a behind-the-scenes look at Anchorage Opera’s Macbeth, with a delicious buffet and a bar, of course! Take One invites audiences inside the creative process as singers and artistic staff explore Verdi’s thrilling score, Shakespeare’s iconic characters, and the making of the production. Hear music up close, discover how opera comes together, and get ready for opening night.
The Nave in the Spenard neighborhood of Anchorage, Alaska is the setting for an all-inclusive afternoon of music, discussion, food, and drink! Enjoy wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages before a concert, and panel discussion with the stars. Discover interesting facts about Macbeth, it’s plot, history, and get a sneak peak of excerpts from the full production. Q & A from the audience, and more interactive fun. Enjoy a reception afterwards, with a complete catered buffet of food and drink.
Please consider sponsoring and artist! Cover the cost of their food and drink, plus receive special recognition and personal thanks from the artist and Anchorage Opera.
Participants: Gregory McDaniel, Reggie Smith, Jr., Christina Major, Ben Gulley, and Zaikuan Song
Opera in the Atrium | Macbeth
Friday, November 6, 2026
Immerse yourself in Macbeth at the Anchorage Museum as Anchorage Opera offers a free, informal preview performance featuring artists from the production. Presented as part of the Anchorage Museum’s free First Friday program.
For opera newbies and afficionados alike, it’s great fun – and good for the whole family! Drop by for a few minutes or get there early and get a seat so you can take in the whole program!
Participants: Gregory McDaniel, Reggie Smith, Jr., Christina Major, Ben Gulley, Zaikuan Song, and AO Repetiteur
Opera in the Atrium | La bohème
Friday, April 2, 2027
Love, friendship, art, and heartbreak fill the Anchorage Museum as Anchorage Opera shares highlights from Puccini’s beloved La bohème. Featuring artists from the production, this free, informal performance is offered as part of the Anchorage Museum’s First Friday program.
For opera newbies and afficionados alike, it’s great fun – and good for the whole family! Drop by for a few minutes or get there early and get a seat so you can take in the whole program!
Parlando | Cole Porter and Friends
Sunday, April 4, 2027
7:00PM-9:00PM
Nobody could spin wit and a delovely tune with quite the same verve as Cole Porter. Join us for a fascinating look at the Great American Songbook, pairing Porter favorites with music by friends and contemporaries for an intimate evening of storytelling and song.
Participants: Michael Scarcelle, and Susan Wingrove Reed
Take One: La bohème
Sunday, April 11, 2027
4:00 – 6:30 PM
Spend an afternoon with the stars of Anchorage Opera’s La bohème!
The stunning private home of Dr. Brian Chen & Tim Pearson is the setting for an all-inclusive afternoon of music, discussion, food, and drink! Enjoy wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages before a concert, and panel discussion with the stars.
Discover interesting facts about La bohème, it’s plot, history, and get a sneak peak of excerpts from the full production. Q & A from the audience, and more interactive fun. Enjoy a reception afterwards, with a complete catered buffet of food and drink.
Please consider sponsoring and artist! Cover the cost of their food and drink, plus receive special recognition and personal thanks from the artist and Anchorage Opera.
Participants: Meghan Kasanders, Chabrelle Williams, Charles Calotta, Justin Birchell, and AO Repetiteur
Parlando | Alaska, in Song
Saturday, July 3, 2027
7:00PM-9:00PM
What does Alaska sound like? Anchorage Opera explores the people, landscapes, stories, and spirit of the 49th state through an intimate evening of song. Featuring music inspired by Alaska and voices connected to our community, this Parlando program celebrates the extraordinary place we call home.
Participants: Justin Birchell, Alaskan Composers, Community Singers, AADP, and Susan Wingrove Reed