Operation Opera is an avant-garde community outreach program in the Commonwealth of Virginia that delivers a variety of dynamic, in-depth presentations to a wide diversity of groups throughout the state – at no cost to them!

"Opera, just like great films, drama, literature, fine arts and even sports, makes us feel truly alive by allowing us to experience larger-than-life events," says Glenn Winters, Virginia Opera's Community Outreach Musical Director. "My aim is that Operation Opera will allow adults of all backgrounds and interests to connect with this life-affirming effect."

Part of the largest opera education program in America, Operation Opera presented over 150 free programs last season, reaching more than 30,000 (including radio and television appearances) audience members!

Topics of the high-energy presentations, which are geared toward adults ranging from college students to senior citizens, include explorations into Virginia Opera's season productions, basic opera primers and advanced master's classes. The program's flexibility, a product of two years of research and development, allows groups to tailor presentations to fit their specific interests.

Operation Opera also hosts an Opera InSight discussion panels in Norfolk, and is partnering with WCVE-FM in Richmond for the on-air program Opera Talk, to give audiences a broader understanding and appreciation of our productions.

Virginia Opera's Education and Community Outreach department, a staff of four with a combined 10 degrees in education, administers Operation Opera. Glenn Winters presents in Hampton Roads and Central Virginia. Candie Leibundguth, Education Special Events Coordinator, presents in Northern Virginia. 

OPERATION OPERA:  FREE Presentations Call 757-627-9545 (ext. 3304) to schedule or learn more

Is your group made up of opera beginners? Opera lovers? Opera experts? No matter who you have in your group, one of these presentations is sure to fit the bill: Opera For People Who Don't Like Opera A humorous, insightful and interactive introduction to the art form.     Season Preview   An overview of the exciting 2007-2008 Virginia Opera season. In-depth Preview  A detailed look at any individual production of your choice - book one or book all four. Custom Presentations Available upon request!

ATTENTION EDUCATORS!  Opera relates to a wide range of academic subjects. Consider a guest lecture for high school or college classes such as these: American History European History Seminars Music Appreciation Music History Women's Studies African-American Studies Literature Theatre Fraternities/Sororities American History European History Honors

“I have been to other "opera talks", but have never come away with the appreciation for it that you imparted to us today. Besides your passion for opera and your breadth of knowledge, you are an amazing teacher.”  -Bobbi Fisler, Williamsburg Unitarian Universalist Church “A heartfelt ‘thank you’ for your wonderful program. Our group enjoyed it hugely. I really believe we have made some converts to grand opera!” -Kay Wagner, Duck Wood Country Club Women's Association

CALL 757-627-9545 (ext. 3304) TODAY!

 Operation Opera is sponsored generously by:

Floyd E. Kellam Jr. and H. Lee Kantor Funds