The New Orleans Opera Association (NOOA), which recently opened applications for the Donald W. Wood Grant and vocal competition, will kick off its 81st season with a new production of the opera The Marriage of Figaro. Performances are scheduled for September 29 at 7:30 p.m. and October 1 at 2:30 p.m. at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Chas Rader-Shieber will direct the production, accompanied by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, with Elizabeth Askren conducting. 

Known as “Mozart’s perfect opera,” The Marriage of Figaro explores human relationships with humor, charm and musical artistry. Clare Burovac, General and Artistic Director of NOOA expressed enthusiasm about the production: “We have assembled a talented cast of performers who promise to deliver a memorable opera experience.”

Both performances will feature an outdoor Pre-Opera Party at the Norman Treigle Plaza near the fountain in front of the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Refreshments will be available and the Electric Yat Quartet from New Orleans will provide live music. Attendees are also invited to participate in a pre-concert Nuts-and-Bolts Lecture that offers background information about the opera. After each performance, a post-concert talkback will allow audience members to share their thoughts and experiences.

For students, there’s Student Night Out, where New Orleans Opera provides free tickets to fully staged final dress rehearsals. This event for The Marriage of Figaro will occur at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27, at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Contact Dr. Tara A. Melvin, Director of Community Partnerships and Education, to secure tickets at the provided email address.

Ticket prices range from $32 to $235, with student tickets available for $10 with a valid photo ID. To purchase tickets or learn more, contact the New Orleans Opera Box Office at 504.529.3000 or visit the New Orleans Opera’s official website.