In May, Cincinnati Opera hosted a workshop for Lalovavi by Kevin Day and Tifara Brown, to premiere in June 2025. Pictured: Diamond Sparks, Victoria Okafor, and Adrienne Danrich (photo: Philip Groshong)
In May, Cincinnati Opera hosted a workshop for Lalovavi by Kevin Day and Tifara Brown, to premiere in June 2025. Pictured: Diamond Sparks, Victoria Okafor, and Adrienne Danrich (photo: Philip Groshong)
Article Published: 12 Jul 2024

New and Noteworthy: American opera's upcoming world premieres

What’s next in American opera? The 2024–2025 season offers a variety of operas large and small as companies around the country continue to prioritize the creation and development of new works. This season shows a continued focus on bringing Black stories to the stage, particularly stories of Black history and Black joy. Plus, opera is once again finding the funny as companies commission comedies and satires after years dominated by premieres of dramas and tragedies. There is also a cluster of new, more intimate chamber operas exploring family relationships. Below is a selection of upcoming premieres this season. For a complete list of performances, visit the National Opera Calendar.

This article was published in the Summer 2024 issue of Opera America Magazine.

Keep exploring opera by signing in or joining as a member.

Unlock the full benefits of membership by clicking the link below.

Join Today

OR

Enjoy more OPERA America content as a member.
An AI revolution is coming — in opera too?

The advantages and anxieties of artificial intelligence at opera companies

April 3, 2024
World Opera Forum 2024 Opening Session & What's Changed Since 2018

A panel examines how global events—tech, climate, war, and migration—are reshaping opera, its artists, and its audiences.

February 18, 2025
World Opera Forum 2024 Topic I: What We Produce, How We Produce It, and For Whom

A panel explores how new works, technology, and tradition shape opera’s future, balancing heritage with evolving audiences.

February 18, 2025
World Opera Forum 2024 Topic II: Elevating Human Values

A panel examines opera’s evolving workforce, exploring equity, job security, and artist empowerment in a changing industry.

February 18, 2025