LA Opera's 40th Anniversary Season promises to be a spectacular celebration of opera, featuring a diverse array of performances that span romance, passion, drama, and comedy. This season is designed to captivate and entertain audiences with its rich variety of operatic styles and stories all while celebrating our history. Our 40th Anniversary is particularly significant as it marks James Conlon's 20th and final season as LA Opera's Music Director. Conlon, who will transition to Conductor Emeritus, has had a tremendous impact on LA Opera and the cultural life of Los Angeles. He will conduct his 500th performance with the incredible LA Opera Orchestra during the first week of the new season.  

Main Stage Operas 

West Side Story   (September 20-October 8, 2025)  

We’re kicking off our season with one of the greatest American masterpieces of all time—Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story,   conducted by one of the greatest maestros of our time, James Conlon leading the LA Opera Orchestra. Given that this musical was originally conceived as an opera, this is a phenomenal opportunity to experience its iconic score as never before. Conducting West Side Story marks the 70th work and 500^th performance leading the outstanding LA Opera Orchestra.  

Acclaimed director Francesca Zambello brings the raw energy of Manhattan’s gang-ridden streets to our LA stage with a production that has received high praise at Houston Grand Opera, Glimmerglass Festival, and Lyric Opera of Chicago. On why this story still hits home today, Zambello said: “Although America is a country of immigrants, we continue to struggle with issues around immigration and migration, which makes West Side Story as resonant today as it was when it was first written.” 

Of course, West Side Story wouldn’t be the same without its iconic choreography, and we’re bringing Jerome Robbin’s original choreography back to life under the direction of Emmy Award-winning choreographer Joshua Bergasse. Leading our incredible cast, Metropolitan star Gabriella Reyes makes her much-anticipated LA Opera debut as Maria, while SoCal’s own Duke Kim returns as Tony after his stunning performance as Romeo in Romeo and Juliet. 

For Maestro Conlon, conducting West Side Story isn’t just another engagement—it’s the realization of a lifelong dream. Don’t miss this thrilling production of an American classic. 

[Click here to get more info for West Side Story.] 

La Bohème   (November 22-December 14, 2025) Puccini’s timeless masterpiece La Bohème returns in all its breathtaking grandeur. One of the most beloved operas of all time, this heartrending tale of love, passion, and sacrifice is set to lush, soaring melodies—a score that has captivated audiences for generations. It’s also the perfect introduction to opera, just as it was for James Conlon, who began his professional career as a child chorister in La Bohème before conducting it as his first major break. 

Beyond the opera house, this iconic work has shaped modern culture, inspiring the Broadway hit Rent and Academy Award-winning film Moulin Rouge while influencing legendary film composers like John Williams, Ennio Morricone, and Hans Zimmer. Its impact is undeniable, and now, we bring it to life once more with our own beloved production returning to our stage for the first time since 2016. 

This season, we welcome back LA Opera Young Artist alumni Janai Brugger as the delicate and doomed Mimì and Erica Petrocelli as the dazzling Musetta. Making their highly anticipated company debuts, Oreste Cosimo steps into the role of the passionate poet Rodolfo, while Gihoon Kim takes on the charismatic Marcello. The production will be led by our brilliant Resident Conductor Lina González-Granados, with director Brenna Corner infusing the staging with warmth, nostalgia, and breathtaking emotion. 

Don’t miss your chance to experience one of opera’s most unforgettable love stories, brought to life with fresh energy and timeless beauty. 

[Click here to get more info for La Bohème.] 

Akhnaten   (February 28-March 22, 2026) A long-awaited spectacle returns at last—Philip Glass’ mesmerizing Akhnaten makes its triumphant comeback a decade after its last appearance in 2016. The third opera in his visionary trilogy on historical figures who changed the world through their ideas (Einstein on the Beach and Satyagraha being the others), Akhnaten is a modern classic and an absolute must-see. 

This hypnotic masterpiece follows the rise and fall of the enigmatic, revolutionary pharaoh Akhnaten, who sought to overthrow Egypt’s polytheistic traditions (the belief of multiple gods) and replace them with monotheism (the belief of a singular god). Sung in three ancient languages—Ancient Egyptian, Akkadian, and Hebrew—as well as in English, this opera is a bold, immersive experience like no other. Adding to its mystique, the title role is written for a countertenor, giving the pharaoh an eerie, ethereal presence that lingers long after the final note. 

In the otherworldly title role, we are thrilled to welcome back John Holiday, whose dazzling vocal artistry has enthralled Los Angeles audiences—most recently in Eurydice—and whose unforgettable appearance on The Voice brought opera to a whole new audience. Making her company debut as Nefertiti is the sensational Sun-Ly Pierce, and we're excited to welcome back returning favorites So Young Park as Queen Tye and Zachary James as Amenhotep III. Leading the orchestra in her highly anticipated company debut is the brilliant Dalia Stasevska, principal guest conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chief Conductor of Finland’s Lahti Symphony Orchestra. 

Prepare for a theatrical experience unlike any other—Akhnaten is a visual and musical tour de force that will leave you utterly spellbound. 

 [Click here to get more info for Akhnaten.] 

Falstaff   (April 18-May 10, 2026) Next in our season is Verdi’s grand farewell to opera—his comedic masterpiece, Falstaff. In his final work, Verdi delivers a riotous, fast-paced romp that proves life is one big, glorious joke. 

At the heart of the story is the larger-than-life Sir John Falstaff—an aging, penniless knight with a devilish scheme: he plans to woo two wealthy women to secure his luxurious future. But these clever ladies are one step ahead, and what follows is a whirlwind of mischief, disguises, and laugh-out-loud chaos. This production, directed by the imaginative Shawna Lucey, brings out all the rich physical comedy and charm that make Falstaff an irresistible delight. 

Leading the cast is LA favorite Craig Colclough, whose powerhouse performances continue to captivate audiences. He returns to us after his portrayal of Lord Capulet in Romeo and Juliet. Returning to our stage are the dazzling Nicole Heaston as Alice Ford and LA Opera Young Artist alum Anthony León as the lovestruck Fenton. Making their much-anticipated company debuts, baritone Ernesto Petti will be the much-beleaguered Ford and soprano Deanna Breiwick steps into the role of Nannetta. At the podium, Verdi master James Conlon conducts Verdi’s brilliant, fast-moving score, ensuring an unforgettable night of music and merriment. 

Expect sharp wit, soaring melodies, and nonstop laughter—Falstaff is a comic gem that will leave you grinning long after the curtain falls. 

[Click here to get more info for Falstaff.] 

The Magic Flute   (May 30-June 21, 2026) We’re closing our season with a spellbinding spectacle—Mozart’s beloved comedic masterpiece, The Magic Flute. Back by popular demand, the dazzling silent film-inspired production from Komische Oper Berlin returns. Mixing live acting (and singing) with hand-drawn animation, this popular and beloved production, which made its US premiere at LA Opera, has been seen by more people worldwide than any other in recent history. 

Step into a world of magic, mystery, and adventure as Prince Tamino embarks on an epic quest to rescue the radiant Princess Pamina. Armed with nothing but enchanted bells and a magical flute, he must navigate whimsical trials, mischievous foes, and the wicked Queen of the Night’s treacherous schemes. Will he triumph, or will darkness prevail? 

Making his highly anticipated company debut as Tamino is Miles Mykkanen, the winner of the 2019 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, joined by Sydney Mancasola (our radiant 2023 Mélisande) as Pamina. Also making their company debuts are the charismatic Kyle Miller as the bird-catching Papageno, the electrifying Aigul Khismatullina, who takes on the show-stopping role of the Queen of the Night and the distinguished bass Kwangchul Youn as Sarastro. 

Adding to the magic, this production marks James Conlon’s final performances as Music Director, making it a truly historic and unmissable event. Don’t miss this whimsical, breathtaking, and utterly enchanting season finale. 

[Click here to get more info for The Magic Flute.] 

Concerts and Recitals at the DCP 

Juan Diego Flórez (February 10, 2026)This season, we’re thrilled to welcome back tenor Juan Diego Flórez for a one-night-only recital you won’t want to miss. Expect a stunning mix of bel canto gems—his specialty—plus classic Spanish songs and cherished childhood favorites from his native Peru. Flórez is one of the most celebrated voices in opera today, redefining how we hear Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti with his unparalleled range and clarity. Beyond the stage, he’s also a powerful advocate for music education, with his Sinfonía por el Perú initiative providing free music training to underserved children in Peru. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of opera’s most influential stars live in concert. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

Patti LuPone (February 21, 2026) Another grand return next season is the legendary Patti LuPone, who will present her iconic cabaret show, Matters of the Heart. This performance will feature Broadway classics alongside music by Brian Wilson, Joni Mitchell, Randy Newman, Judy Collins, Cyndi Lauper, and more. We are honored to have one of Broadway’s greatest divas return to our stage after her incredible concert here last year. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

James Conlon Concert & Gala (April 24, 2026) As this season marks the end of James Conlon’s extraordinary 20-year tenure as music director (before taking on the role of conductor laureate), we will be holding a special concert led by the maestro himself. In celebration of his remarkable legacy, Conlon will devote much of the evening to the music of his three favorite opera composers: Mozart, Verdi, and Wagner. Joined by the LA Opera Orchestra and an array of exceptional guest artists, this concert will be a not-to-be-missed tribute to Conlon’s profound impact on our company.

Following the concert, guests are invited to a gala dinner and celebration on the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. This one-of-a-kind evening will bring together the LA Opera family to honor Maestro Conlon and celebrate his extraordinary achievements. Gala tickets are sold separately. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

Renée Fleming (June 13, 2026) Our annual recital with Renée Fleming returns this season, and she is sure to dazzle us once again with her extraordinary talent. Fleming’s accolades are immense—she is a five-time Grammy winner, a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, and has even performed live at the Super Bowl. Fleming’s recitals are always perfect capstones to our seasons and if you haven’t had the chance to witness this opera treasure live yet, we hope that you consider grabbing a ticket.

[Click here to get more info.] 

Off Grand 

The Phantom of the Opera   (October 30-31, 2025) Stepping away from our main stage, we’ll be hosting our annual Halloween movie screening at the United Theater on Broadway. This year, we’ll be showing the 1925 silent film The Phantom of the Opera, featuring Lon Chaney in his iconic role. The screening will be accompanied by a live performance of Roy Budd’s gorgeously spooktacular soundtrack score, played by the LA Opera Orchestra. 

A century after its premiere, this classic film continues to send chills and thrills to both new and returning audiences. This is a must-see for horror fans or anyone looking for a fun and memorable way to celebrate Halloween. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

Hildegard   (November 5-9, 2025) This season, we continue our collaboration with Beth Morrison Projects to bring bold and innovative operas to Los Angeles. This season’s offering will be the world premiere of Sarah Kirkland Snider’s Hildegard at The Wallis. 

The opera transports us to 1147, following pioneering composer Hildegard von Bingen as she receives visions from God. Determined to document them, she joins forces with a fellow nun to illustrate her divine experiences. However, their work comes at great risk—if discovered, they could be condemned as heretics by the Church. 

Hildegard promises to be a groundbreaking opera, exploring themes of desire and devotion that resonate with us all. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

Ben Bliss in Recital (December 7, 2025) 

We’re kicking off our recital series with the master Mozartean tenor Ben Bliss at The Wallis. After dazzling on the world’s biggest stages—from Paris to Vienna to New York—Bliss returns for an intimate recital, giving you the rare chance to experience his artistry up close. A winner of the Metropolitan Opera’s Beverly Sills Award and Lincoln Center’s Martin E. Segal Award, we’re thrilled to have him back after his stellar soloist performance in our 2022 St. Matthew Passion. 

Ben’s portrayal of Tom Rakewell in the Met’s 2022 The Rake’s Progress earned rave reviews, with Voix des Arts calling him “a peer of the best Toms in the opera’s seven-decade history.” Opera Warhorses named him “an exemplar of the Mozartean tenor.” With accolades like these and performances in the world’s top opera houses, he is fast becoming an opera superstar. Don’t miss this chance to see him live. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

Nadine Sierra in Recital (March 21, 2026) 

One of opera’s brightest young stars, sopranos Nadine Sierra, will make her LA Opera debut with a recital at Zipper Hall in The Colburn School. Audiences will be treated to her dazzling interpretations of some of opera’s most beloved arias—performances sure to leave a lasting impression. Sierra has become one of the most beloved figures in the art form, known for her engaging online presence and dedication to making opera more accessible to younger and more diverse audiences. Beyond her amazing performances in classic operas, she is also a fierce advocate for bold new works that showcase her incredible versatility. 

Sierra has won some of opera’s most prestigious competitions, including the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and Operalia. Hailed by The Guardian as possessing a “diamond-bright and pitch-perfect voice” and earning multiple Grammy nominations, Sierra’s talent is undeniable. This recital is certain to be an unforgettable evening of vocal excellence. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

Les Talens Lyriques (May 24, 2026) 

Our final featured performance takes place at Zipper Hall, where we are honored to host the Paris-based ensemble Les Talens Lyriques, renowned for their mastery of Baroque music. Following their stunning presentation of French delights last season, the ensemble returns to treat us to a glorious selection of music by Handel. This event is a must for Baroque enthusiasts and anyone with an appreciation for music history. 

[Click here to get more info.] 

If these performances excite you, we’d love for you to explore our special ticket packages. Not only will you get access to these incredible productions, but you’ll also be supporting your local opera company and helping us bring world-class performances to our community. We can’t wait to share these unforgettable experiences with you. 

[Click here to view our packages.]