Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Arizona Opera has announced principal casting for its 2026–27 season, featuring a mix of Arizona-based performers, internationally recognized artists, emerging talent and alumni of the Marion Roose Pullin Arizona Opera Studio.
The season marks the company’s 55th year and includes productions ranging from contemporary works and family-friendly opera to classic repertory, highlighting continued investment in artist development and community engagement, according to a press release.
“Our 55th season reflects Arizona Opera’s continued commitment to artistic excellence, connection to the community and investment in the next generation of opera talent, with productions spanning contemporary works, family-friendly opera and beloved classics,” Brian DeMaris, president and general director of Arizona Opera, said. “We are especially proud to highlight the strength of our Marion Roose Pullin Opera Studio alongside internationally acclaimed artists, creating productions that will resonate deeply with our audiences while strengthening our role in the community.”
The season opens with Derrick Wang’s Scalia/Ginsburg, featuring Arizona soprano Rachel Policar as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, tenor Benjamin Werley as Antonin Scalia and bass-baritone Jesús Vicente Murillo as the Commentator. The production is directed by Cara Consilvio and conducted by Brian DeMaris.
The Marion Roose Pullin Arizona Opera Studio takes a leading role in El Gato con Botas (Puss in Boots) by Xavier Montsalvatge. Studio artists include Rosario Armas in the title role, Cameron Howard as the Miller, Jason Edelstein as the King, José Olivares as the Ogre and Francesca Herrera as the Princess. The production is directed by Sydney Roslin and performed with piano accompaniment and musical direction by Guzal Isametdinova.
In the spring, The Pirates of Penzance will feature baritone Craig Irvin as the Pirate King, with Marion Roose Pullin Arizona Opera Studio alumni Véronique Filloux as Mabel and Brad Bickhardt as Frederic, and mezzo-soprano Jenni Bank as Ruth. The production is directed by Kyle Lang and conducted by Emily Senturia.
The season concludes with Verdi’s La Traviata, starring soprano Cadie J. Bryan as Violetta, tenor Eric Taylor as Alfredo and bass-baritone Richard Ollarsaba as Germont. The production is directed by Joshua Borths and conducted by Stephanie Rhodes-Russell.
A key element of the 2026–27 season is the return of the Marion Roose Pullin Arizona Opera Studio to a full, season-long program. Studio artists will perform in leading and supporting roles throughout the season, reinforcing Arizona Opera’s role in professional artist training.
By combining local talent, emerging artists and established performers, Arizona Opera continues to shape a season focused on expanded programming and community connection.
