Top Opera Performances In Philadelphia

So you've been meaning to get to the opera, but you don't know Puccini from Puttanesca. Or maybe you've been to your fair share of opera performances, and you're looking for something fresh and innovative. Lucky for you, Philadelphia has a vibrant performing arts scene. No matter your budget or the degree of excellence you demand, there's something in Philly for everyone.

"Dark Sisters"
The Opera Company of Philadelphia
Perelman Theater
240 S Broad St
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 893-1999
www.operaphila.org

Dates: June 8 through June 17
Price: $21-$132

The Opera Company of Philadelphia is Philly's premiere Opera company, although you wouldn't know it from the price. With balcony tickets starting at $21, almost anyone can experience world-class performances by singers at the height of their career. This spring, they are hosting the production of "Dark Sisters," a uniquely dark opera composed in English by Nico Muhly. This story unveils the attempts of a woman trying to escape her suffocating life as a member of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She strives to be unique in a world where conformity is the standard. Performances will be held at the Perelman Theater, which means there won't be a bad seat in the house. For novice opera goers or aficionados, the Opera Company of Philadelphia is a must.

Related: Opera Company Of Philadelphia

"Il Postino"
Center City Opera Theater
The Prince Music Theater
1412 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 569-9700
www.operatheater.org

Dates: May 17 through May 20
Price: $29-$79

The Center City Opera Theater (CCOT) is one of the most innovative opera companies in the United States. Unlike most opera companies that only stage the classics, CCOT stages new operas and develops new work, new artists and new audiences. This May, CCOT will host a performance of "Il Postino," with music in Spanish from Daniel Catan. This opera depicts the exile a Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda, faces for his strong communist views. After being forced to relocate to the small Italian island of Cala di Sotto, he forms an interesting relationship with his postman, Mario Ruoppolo, who thrives to be a talented poet as well. With the constant life changes that both men face, this opera unfolds into an extremely unique story that continues to tie the two men together throughout. CCOT goes beyond classic performances like "Il Postino" to also feature special opera events throughout the city. Once a month, they perform "After Hours Arias" in which opera singers perform at local bars totally free. Both the fully-staged performances and the more intimate, free performances of CCOT are enriching and always enjoyable.

"L'esiler D'amore"
Academy of Vocal Arts
Various locations throughout the Philadelphia area
1920 Spruce St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 735-1685
www.avaopera.com

Dates: Now through May 13
Price: $10-$60
Click here for a list of dates and locations.

Don't let the word "academy" fool you. While the performers on stage might be students, they are some of the most gifted young opera singers in the world. The Academy of Vocal Arts has an international reputation for quality performances that are consistently praised by critics. With four locations throughout the Philadelphia area, "L'esiler D'amore" can be enjoyed by all. This opera shows the struggle a hopeful peasant boy, Nemorino, has to acquire the love of the beautiful, wealthy Adina. Nemorino tries to win Adina over with the help of a magic love potion. However, this proves difficult as he competes with a young, handsome soldier. "L'esiler D'amore" will be an entertaining performance for all audiences. If you want to see tomorrow's top opera stars today, the Academy of Vocal Arts is the place to do it.

Related: The Best Way To See The Opera