As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the San Francisco Opera is set to unveil its 102nd season, led by the dynamic Caroline H. Hume Music Director, Eun Sun Kim. The festivities kick off on September 6 with the much-anticipated Opera Ball and a captivating concert in Golden Gate Park on September 8.
The San Francisco Opera will launch the 2024-2025 season on September 6 with the Opera Ball and the performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera. This is the SF Opera’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and it’s the most glamorous opening night experience. The event kicks off at 5 p.m. with walking the red carpet to an exquisite cocktail reception.
Following is an enchanting culinary spectacle at City Hall, prepared by McCalls Catering at 6 p.m. then, at the War Memorial Opera House, the 8 p.m. opening night performance of Un Ballo in Maschera (A Masked Ball) starring tenor Michael Fabiano.
When the curtain falls at the opera, guests will return to City Hall at 11 p.m. for an after-party of dancing to live music or spend time in the lounge with libations, bites, and excellent company.
“I think this season will continue to engage and delight our audience with new work and some incredible classics and audience favorites. We have had two very successful seasons with increasing ticket sales that are even above our pre-pandemic attendance,” says Jack Calhoun, president of the board.
The fall season is packed with exciting performances, including the West Coast premiere of Poul Ruders and Paul Bentley’s The Handmaid’s Tale, which runs from September 14 to October 1. This gripping adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s novel explores a dystopian future and showcases talented artists such as mezzo-soprano Irene Roberts.
Additionally, audiences can look forward to Wagner’s monumental Tristan und Isolde and a special performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony to mark its 200th anniversary.
Other highlights of the season include engaging new productions of Mozart’s Idomeneo and revivals of beloved classics like Bizet’s Carmen and Puccini’s La Bohème. The season will also feature special events, including the Carmen Encounter on November 21 and a Pride Concert celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community on June 27.
“We have had amazing success bringing in new audiences. With the success of great programs like our Dolby Family ticket program and our Osher subscription program, we are seeing so many new people coming in and enjoying opera,” says Calhoun.
The San Francisco Opera’s opening weekend culminates with Opera in the Park, the annual free concert on September 8 at Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park. Music Director Eun Sun Kim conducts the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and artists from the 2024 fall season in a program of arias, ensembles, and orchestral music for an afternoon.
Bring your picnic baskets for this favorite al fresco community event attended by thousands of Bay Area residents and visitors each year. Funded in part by Opening Weekend Grand Sponsor Diane B. Wilsey each year with additional support provided by the William and Gretchen Kimball Fund and Kaiser Permanente, Opera in the Park attracts many audiences who never been to the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House to the park to enjoy and appreciate this classic performing art.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the world of opera, subscriptions and single tickets are available at sfopera.com or by calling (415) 864-3330. The Dolby Family discounted ticket program returns by popular demand, ensuring that opera remains accessible to all.
As the curtain rises on this exciting, new season, the San Francisco Opera invites you to join in the celebration of music, community, and artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned opera aficionado or new to the art form, there’s something for everyone at this year’s performances. Don’t miss out on the magic—mark your calendars for an unforgettable opening weekend!