Join us for as we condense Richard Wagner's epic masterpiece in this episode of The Atlanta Opera Podcast. In just a blink of an eye, we'll guide you through the key moments, characters, and themes of Die Walküre, offering a fresh perspective on this monumental work.

Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or new to the genre, The Atlanta Opera Podcast provides an accessible and engaging way to explore the world of opera. So, tune in and get ready to experience the power and drama of Die Walküre like never before.

This is your backstage pass to all things opera! In this episode, we're diving deep into Richard Wagner's epic masterpiece, Die Walküre. Join us as we explore five essential things you need to know about this timeless opera before experiencing it live at The Atlanta Opera. From the captivating storyline to the iconic characters and breathtaking music, we'll guide you through the rich tapestry of Wagner's mythical world.

Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the art form, this episode is your ultimate guide to understanding and appreciating Die Walküre. So grab your headphones, sit back, and welcome to The Atlanta Opera Podcast!

Dive into the madness and music of "The Shining" with director Brian Staufenbiel.

Join Kristinn Sigmundsson, who sings the role of Fasolt, as he summarizes the epic story and delves into the legendary origins of "Das Rheingold."

Enjoy an insightful discussion between Stefano Sarzani and Maestro Arthur Fagen as they explore the music of The Ring and Fagen's approach to conducting Das Rheingold for The Atlanta Opera.

Explore the creative process behind "Das Rheingold" with Production Designer Erhard Rom as Cara Consilvio joins him for a conversation about the scenic and projection designs for The Atlanta Opera's production.

Learn more about "Das Rheingold" with Production Director and Artistic & General Director of The Atlanta Opera, Tomer Zvulun, as he takes us through the history, inspiration, and story of Wagner's epic masterpiece. The legend begins April 29-May 7 at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

Join Tomer Zvulun, the Artistic and General Director of The Atlanta Opera, as he speaks with opera singers Greer Grimsley and Nicholas Brownlee about their experiences singing the role of Wotan in Wagner’s The Ring Cycle. 

Join soprano Indra Thomas for a walk through the history behind and story of "The Anonymous Lover" in this episode of BlinkOpera!

Take a deeper look at "The Anonymous Lover" with Stage Director, Maria Todaro, as she explores what sets The Atlanta Opera's production apart. From her unique adaptation to the life of the groundbreaking black composer, Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, learn more about this show running March 31-April 2 at Morehouse College's Ray Charles Performing Arts Center.

Learn 5 Things to Know about Leonard Bernstein's iconic and hilarious operetta, "Candide." Stage director Alison Moritz walks us through the show's history and touches on themes that may be familiar to opera goers.

Flamboyant and brilliant, the music of Candide is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face! Listen to conductor James Lowe break down some of his favorite moments from Leonard Bernstein's comic operetta and what makes this a must-see production.

Welcome to Season 3 of The Atlanta Opera Podcast's BlinkOpera, the series built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording: Bernstein: Candide: London Symphony Orchestra & Chorus; Leonard Bernstein; Deutsche Grammophon; 1991

BlinkOpera is your go-to source for quick insights into your favorite opera! 

Join host Susanne Burgess, who sings the role of Helena, as we dive into the whimsical world of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and explore the plot of  Benjamin Britten's adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy — filled with fairies, lovers, and mischief!

The story of Candide is a particularly fascinating saga, from its origins as biting satire by French philosopher Voltaire through its rocky opera premiere to its revival as a Broadway sensation. Soprano Deanna Breiwick walks you through all this and even more in this episode of BlinkOpera!

Welcome to Season 3 of The Atlanta Opera Podcast's BlinkOpera, the series built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording: Bernstein: Candide: London Symphony Orchestra & Chorus; Leonard Bernstein; Deutsche Grammophon; 1991

Don Giovanni is a staple of the opera repertoire, a definitive masterpiece by one of the most prolific composers in history. Listen in as mezzo soprano Jennifer Johnson Cano expertly guides you through all the drama and intrigue of this familiar tale in our latest episode of BlinkOpera!

Welcome to Season 3 of The Atlanta Opera Podcast's BlinkOpera, the series built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording: Mozart: Don Giovanni: Philharmonia Orchestra & Chorus; Carlo Maria Giulini; Parlophone Records Ltd; 1961

The critical work of presenting the many nuances and practices of a culture in a productive and respectful manner requires an experienced advisor to look out for the pitfalls that can damage perceptions and guide the cast and creative team as they balance the dramatic narrative with healthy cultural perpective.

Episode 4 of Metamorphosis features the voice of Kevin Suzuki of the Japanese Folk Dance Institute of New York who has served as The Atlanta Opera's Cultural & Movement Advisor for this production of Madama Butterfly. Kevin and Nina break down the harmful tropes and stereotypes specific to the staging of this work and walk through the important work done to present a revitalized Butterfly for all.

5 Things to Know is back with fascinating details about Puccini's breathtaking Madama Butterfly and The Atlanta Opera's production of this timeless work, as told by The Atlanta Opera's Carl W. Knobloch, Jr. General & Artistic Director and the production's stage director Tomer Zvulun.

Recording: Puccini: Madama Butterfly: Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Maria; Various; Warner Classics; 2009 

The story of Madama Butterfly is an engrossing tale that has captured the hearts of operagoers for generations, but what sets this masterpiece apart is arguably one of the most beautiful opera scores ever composed. Join conductor Timothy Myers as he walks through some of his favorite selections from Puccini's breathtaking opera and provides fascinating perspective on some of the most iconic arias in the repertoire.

Welcome to Season 3 of The Atlanta Opera Podcast's BlinkOpera, the series built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording: Puccini: Madama Butterfly: Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Maria; Various; Warner Classics; 2009

The career of the Asian and Asian-American vocalist can be a uniquely challenging journey as stereotypes persist and can often pre-define the trajectory of artists that otherwise possess diverse ranges and abilities. As the opera industry continues to reimagine timeless works like Madama Butterfly, casting comes under the microscope as companies strive to balance established tradition with progressive thought.

In Episode 3 of Metamorphosis, Nina sits down with tenor Nicholas Phan as he shares his experiences as a young Asian-American artist, the merits of casting demonstrated in The Atlanta Opera's upcoming production of Madama Butterfly, and how companies can continue to pave new roads in the world of equity to create a more diverse and beautiful opera landscape.

Puccini's brilliant masterpiece Madama Butterfly is a breathtaking tale of innocence lost that has captured the hearts of operagoers for ages. Listen in as baritone Julius Ahn, performing the role of Goro in the upcoming Atlanta Opera production, breaks down the history and plot of this timeless classic in this episode of BlinkOpera!

Welcome to Season 3 of The Atlanta Opera Podcast's BlinkOpera, the series built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording: Puccini: Madama Butterfly: Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Maria; Various; Warner Classics; 2009

Representation on the stage is a powerful tool to re-shape conventional perceptions surrounding works like Madama Butterfly. But real change is found when diversity is present across all elements of the world of the arts. From directors to critics, it is imperative to discover new voices that can present these works from a fresh perspective.

Join Nina Yoshida Nelsen for Episode 2 of Metamorphosis as she interviews Mari Yoshihara, Editor of American Quarterly, and composer Huang Ruo to discover the significance of a new critical voice in the industry, and how The Atlanta Opera's production is stepping forward to challenge conventional narratives of a complex work of opera.

Find out more about Mari Yoshihara's work: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/amst/archive/portfolio_page/mari-yoshihara/

Find out more about the music of composer Huang Ruo: https://huangruo.com/

In Episode 1 of Metamorphosis, host Nina Yoshida Nelsen sits down with Phil Chan, author of Final Bow for Yellowface, to break down the larger historical narrative surrounding Asian depictions in arts and entertainment. With an emphasis on deciphering character versus caricature, Nina and Phil share their experiences and explore productive and positive methods to present cultural influences while retaining the essence of these classic works of art.

Metamorphosis, a 5-part limited series from The Atlanta Opera Podcast with host Nina Yoshida Nelsen, explores the complex cultural narratives of Puccini's beloved Madama Butterfly. Nina engages with colleagues from across the Asian-American community to understand what is damaging, what is redeeming, and what is possible as The Atlanta Opera prepares to present its 2022 production of this timeless opera.

Reimagining an opera is a delicate balance. Discovering a new perspective while honoring the spirit of the original work requires a special level of care and artistry. So how does one reimagine an opera like Bela Bartok's haunting Bluebeard's Castle, a work straight from the realms of Gothic horror, for a new audience?

Director Daisy Evans and conductor Stephen Higgins come to the mic for this episode of BlinkOpera to talk about their inspiration and process of rediscovering this chamber opera as an exploration of a very familiar experience - traveling a path of a life with dementia.

Welcome to Season 3 of The Atlanta Opera Podcast's BlinkOpera, the series built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording:
Bartok: Bluebeard's Castle; London Sinfonietta; Stephen Higgins

Welcome to The Atlanta Opera Podcast! In this episode, join host Bruno Baker, Stage Director for our production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," as he shares five things you need to know about the show. 

From behind-the-scenes insights to the creative process behind the production design, Bruno dives deep into what makes this interpretation of Shakespeare's classic comedy truly special. 

Whether you're a seasoned opera-goer or a newcomer to the world of theater, this episode is your guide to unlocking the magic of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at The Atlanta Opera. Tune in and get ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the whimsical world of fairies and lovers!

The Atlanta Opera welcomed summer with a truly unique festival featuring the soul-searching, identity-defining chamber opera As One. The performances touched audiences and brought them into the journey of the trans experience that was poignant and uplifting. Baritone and As One cast member Lucia Lucas joined host Erik Teague back in March to talk about being a proud "Heldenbaritonisten" and the finer points of being a trans woman in the opera world, and we are thrilled to bring this interview back for this week!

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

A fan-favorite Come As You Are episode returns on The Atlanta Opera Podcast as we revisit Erik Teague's conversation with "opera's nose-studded rock star," Jamie Barton! Bisexual advocacy and body positivity are just a few of the topics covered in this jam-packed pod in this genuine conversation between these two industry professionals.

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

The Atlanta Opera's Come As You Are Festival was a masterful display of creativity and artistry, and not just from the impressive casts of the various productions. Jump into this rewind of Come As You Are as host and the festival's costume designer Erik Teague chats with the festival's lighting designer Marcella Barbeau about their inspirations and experiences in the industry that has led them to this point. 

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

Our final conversation of the season features veteran filmmaker and co-creator of the chamber opera As One, Kimberly Reed! Kimberly and Erik share their thoughts on the importance of bringing trans-centered stories to the public eye through the opera medium, and what made The Atlanta Opera's production of As One truly special. 

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

Conducting called to Alexis Enyart from a very young age, a passion that drove her to the podium. But as she propelled her career forward, she also began the complex journey of realizing her own identity as a trans woman. Join us for a poignant conversation as host Erik Teague chats with Alexis about her story, the intersecting stigmas of trans women personally and professionally, and her work with The Atlanta Opera's Come As You Are Festival as the conductor for the chamber opera As One.

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

Laura Kaminsky comes to the table this week as a guest for this very special episode of Come As You Are! As the composer of the poignant chamber opera As One, Laura Kaminsky discusses her fascinating experiences as a musician and composer that drew her to create this innovative work detailing the life of Hannah and her journey of self-discovery and acceptance as a trans woman. 

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

Intimacy. Vulnerability. Discovery. Strength. As One is a transformative chamber opera by Laura Kaminsky, Mark Campbell, and Kimberly Reed, that follows the journey of transgender woman Hannah. Performed by two singers who each encapsulate elements of Hannah and accompanied by a string quartet, this intimate setting draws the audience into the incredible story of one's self-discovery and the living of one's truth.

Join one of the voices of Hannah, mezzo-soprano Blythe Gaissert, as she walks you through The Atlanta Opera's production of this poignant, comedic, and uplifting opera, one she holds a special place for in her own life.

Recording: Kaminsky, Campbell & Reed: As One; American Opera Projects live recording from Merkin Concert Hall with Blythe Gaissert & Michael Kelly conducted by Steven Osgood: 2019

Kander & Ebb's musical Cabaret about the colorful characters of the seedy Kit Kat Klub during the rise of the Nazis in 1930's Berlin was a heavy-hitting production when it debuted, just 20 years after World War II. The complex subject material continues to reverberate throughout our society, and the struggle of the individuals within the musical to surrender to blissful ignorance or accept a sobering reality remains particularly poignant.

Join baritone Curt Olds, your friendly emcee of the Kit Kat Klub, as he explores the haunting and sultry Cabaret in advance of The Atlanta Opera's production as a part of the Come As You Are Festival.

Recording: Kander & Ebb: Cabaret: The New Broadway Cast Recording; Various; BMG Entertainment; 1998

Hair, makeup, and wig designer J Jared Janas found himself trailblazing from an early age. The first of his family to be born in the United States, he found an unlikely path to the world of hair and makeup in spite of social and economic challenges that the exclusive world of theatre can often prove too far a reach. Listen to his fascinating story of humble beginnings and his discovery of identity and purpose in this week's episode of Come As You Are with Erik Teague!

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

As The Atlanta Opera continues its productions of the GRAMMY-winning The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs from April 30th - May 8th, 2022, enjoy this special rewind as baritone John Moore and Tomer Zvulun discuss transforming into the polarizing pioneer Steve Jobs, highlighting the significance of this role in opera and more in this episode of The Atlanta Opera's The Business of Opera.

Join baritone Zachary Nelson, who brings the character of Marcello to life on stage, as he hosts this episode of The Atlanta Opera Podcast, "BlinkOpera: La Bohème." In this episode, Nelson provides an insightful look into the story and characters that make this Puccini opera a true masterpiece.

Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or a newcomer, The Atlanta Opera Podcast offers a fresh perspective on the enchanting and timeless tale of La bohème, making it a must-listen for opera enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Blink and it’s over! Director Tomer Zvulun shares the top 5 things you need to know about The Atlanta Opera’s production of The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs.

The music of The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs is a fast-paced score of acoustic resonance and electronic sampling, featuring instruments not normally found in the opera pit like saxophone and guitar. How do all of these unorthodox elements blend to create a GRAMMY-winning musical experience? Listen in as conductor Michael Christie guides you through this riveting opera by composer Mason Bates and librettist Mark Campbell in this week's BlinkOpera!

Blinks are built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording:
Bates: The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs; Santa Fe Opera Orchestra; Michael Christie; Pentatone

Steve Jobs was a revolutionary, a complex mastermind whose efforts to redefine technology have made an indelible impact on us all. Drama and intrigue define his story - a story tailor-made for opera. Join baritone John Moore as he discusses the opera's plot, collaboration with composer Mason Bates and librettist Mark Campbell, and his approach to encapsulating the polarizing pioneer on stage in this episode of BlinkOpera!

Blinks are built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!

Recording:
Bates: The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs; Santa Fe Opera Orchestra; Michael Christie; Pentatone

In preparation for The Atlanta Opera's production of the GRAMMY-winning The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs from April 30th - May 8th, 2022, enjoy this special rewind as librettist Mark Campbell digs into his approach to writing, how he made Steve Jobs' character uniquely human, and more in this episode of The Business of Opera with Tomer Zvulun.

In preparation for The Atlanta Opera's production of the GRAMMY-winning The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs from April 30th - May 8th, 2022, enjoy this special rewind as composer Mason Bates and Tomer Zvulun discuss taking on the mythology of Steve Jobs, creating new sonic worlds for opera and Bates' influences in this episode of The Atlanta Opera's The Business of Opera.

Director and choreographer Eric Sean Fogel comes to the mic for this week's episode of Come As You Are with Erik Teague! Eric brings his extensive experience as director and choreographer for premier theatres and events as the Washington National Opera, Glimmerglass Festival, the Metropolitan Art Museum, and Paris Fashion Week to provide his perspective on the state of opera and theatre today, and chats with Erik about his journey accepting himself as a gay man and first-generation American. 

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story! 

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

An icon of the opera and theatre world joins Erik as Francesca Zambello takes center stage for this week's episode! The General & Artistic Director of Glimmerglass Festival provides a unique perspective rising through the ranks of opera and theatre as a gay woman and the challenges she faced during that time, as well as her successes as an internationally-recognized opera and theatre director.

Erik interviews Lucia Lucas, self-described international Heldenbaritonisten. Lucia sings all over the world and is known especially in the US for her portrayal of the title role in Tulsa Opera's Don Giovanni. Her performance was explored in the 2020 film "The Sound of Identity." In this week's episode Erik talks with Lucia about her creative process and her upcoming role in As One at The Atlanta Opera.

Blink and it’s over! Director Michael Shell shares the top 5 things you need to know about The Atlanta Opera’s production of The Barber of Seville.

With recognizable tunes, rapid-fire vocalism, and hilarious, ridiculous shenanigans Rossini’s The Barber of Seville is a comedic opera for all to enjoy! Join baritone Joseph Lattanzi on this week’s episode as he takes us through the background, history, and the opera’s plot ahead of his role debut as Figaro in the Atlanta Opera’s upcoming production.

Blinks are built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!
Recording:
Rossini: The Barber of Seville; Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne; Jesus Lopez-Cobos; Warner Classics International

In this episode of The Atlanta Opera podcast, Production Director Tomer Zvulun takes listeners on a captivating journey through "5 Things to Know" about La bohème. Delving into the intricacies of one of opera's most beloved masterpieces, Zvulun shares his insights into the production process, the historical context, and the unique elements that make La bohème a timeless classic. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the art form, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of the behind-the-scenes magic that brings Puccini's masterpiece to life on the stage.

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

Erik chats with "opera's nose-studded rock star" Jamie Barton for this intriguing and engaging episode, exploring a range of topics from body positivity to gender identity advocacy within the world of opera.

In this week’s episode of Blink Opera, we join our very own Music Director, Maestro Arthur Fagen, for an in-depth look into the music of The Barber of Seville.

Blinks are built to give you an introduction to operas told from the artists who actually perform them and know them intimately. So, let’s listen to the highlights, unpack the plot, and hear about performance anecdotes in a time-efficient and fun way!
Recordings:
Rossini: Vesselina Kasarova - Rossini Arias and Duets; Munich Radio Orchestra; Arthur Fagen; Sony Classical Rossini: The Barber of Seville; Philharmonia Orchestra & Chorus; Alceo Galliera; EMI

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

In this episode, Erik chats with queer, Chinese-American lighting designer Marcella Barbeau as these two colleagues and friends reflect on their shared experiences and laugh their way through their journeys in the world of opera.

Come As You Are explores the intersection of the careers of arts professionals and their identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In each episode, costume designer, trans man, and host Erik Teague discusses the complex narratives, unique challenges, and beautiful stories of a guest's journey through their discipline and their identity. So grab yourself a cup and join us for a good story!

We turn the tables in this introductory episode as The Atlanta Opera's General & Artistic Director Tomer Zvulun interviews Erik about his experiences as a costume designer and a trans man in the industry.