The Atlanta Opera Podcast

Learn the 5 things you need to know about Twilight of the Gods from assistant director Emma Grimsley.

Join Bass-Baritone David Leigh as he tells the story of Twilight of the Gods from the perspective of Hagen, the lonely and frustrated enemy of Siegfried.

In the 5 Things to Know podcast, we break down the essential ideas behind great operas—five quick insights that unlock the story, the music, and why it still matters today. In this episode, assistant director Gregory Luis Boyle joins us to explore Turandot, the final masterpiece of Giacomo Puccini. Opening on April 25, 2026—exactly 100 years to the day after its world premiere—this centennial ...

Welcome to BlinkOpera from The Atlanta Opera, where we bring you the story in the blink of an eye. In this episode, we dive into Turandot with the trio of singers who know its twists and turns better than anyone; Ping, Pang, and Pong. Joining us are Eleomar Cuello, Wayd Odle, are Terrence Chin-Loy who take on the challenge of delivering the entire epic story of riddles, romance, and transformat...

In 5 Things, we break down the essential ideas behind great operas—five quick insights that unlock the story, the music, and why it still matters today. In this episode, we explore The Marriage of Figaro, the sparkling masterpiece by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte. Set during a single chaotic day, servants outwit their master, lovers test each other’s loyalty, and disg...

Season 6, Episode 5 Baritone Luke Sutliff hosts our podcast that dives into the plot of "The Marriage of Figaro." Featured as Count Almaviva in the 2026 production by The Atlanta Opera, Sutliffe unravels the twists and turns of Mozart's comic masterpiece.

Welcome to BlinkOpera, the Atlanta Opera’s bite-sized journey into the heart of great storytelling. In this episode, baritone Anthony Clark Evans guides us through the sweeping emotion and dramatic power of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata—one of the most beloved works in the operatic canon. Evans walks us into the glittering world of Parisian high society, where the radiant courtesan Violetta Val...

Welcome to 5 Things to Know, the Atlanta Opera’s quick, insightful guide to the essential elements behind each production. In this episode, we focus on Giuseppe Verdi’s La traviata, ahead of performances on November 8, 11, 14, and 16, 2025, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Your guide today is conductor Evan Rogister, who distills the five most important aspects of this beloved master...

Five Things is your quick guide to the world of opera, theater, and the stories that bring them to life. Each episode highlights five key insights—whether it’s what makes a classic like Fiddler on the Roof timeless, or the behind-the-scenes details that shape a new production. In this episode, special guest Gregory Luis Boyle shares five essential things to know about Fiddler on the Roof, offe...

Step into the world of Fiddler on the Roof like never before. In this special podcast from The Atlanta Opera and Alliance Theatre, acclaimed actor Itzik Cohen (Fauda, The Women’s Balcony) takes on the role of Tevye—not just to sing and speak on stage, but to personally tell you his story. Shared entirely in the first person as Tevye, this intimate retelling brings you inside the humor, hardshi...

In this episode, assistant director Emma Grimsley shares five essential things to know about Handel’s Semele before you head to the theater. From Handel’s legendary music and the mythological roots of the story, to the surprising history of oratorios and the da capo arias that dazzle in performance, you’ll get a quick, engaging look at what makes this baroque masterpiece so unforgettable. Wheth...

In this episode, tenor Josh Lovell—making his Atlanta Opera debut as Jupiter—guides listeners through the sweeping drama of Handel’s Semele. This Baroque masterpiece follows the story of a mortal woman caught between love and ambition, as her secret affair with the king of the gods leads to divine deception, fiery consequences, and the birth of a new god. Along the way, Josh shares his persona...

Explore the epic layers of Wagner’s Siegfried with 5 Things to Know: Siegfried. From reforged swords to forest whispers, join conductor Roberto Kalb as he unpacks five fascinating insights into the music, myth, and meaning behind this operatic masterpiece.

Join contralto Lindsay Ammann — making her Atlanta Opera debut as Erda — as she hosts this episode of BlinkOpera exploring Wagner’s Siegfried. Lindsay shares insights into the mythic world of the Ring Cycle and reflects on embodying the ancient, timeless voice of Erda. Learn how Wagner’s music brings these legendary characters to life, and get a personal glimpse into one of opera’s most powerf...

What happens when Verdi’s thrilling music collides with Shakespeare’s most haunting thriller? In this episode, assistant director Elio Bucky shares five key insights into Macbeth—from its Shakespearean roots to Verdi’s revisions, cutting-edge stagecraft, and the eerie superstitions surrounding the tale. Don’t miss this deep dive into power, fate, and one of opera’s most chilling masterpieces!

Dive into the darkness with BlinkOpera: Macbeth. Soprano Sara Gartland—our electrifying Lady Macbeth—takes you inside Shakespeare’s legendary tale of ambition and madness. From the witches’ fateful prophecies to the bloody consequences of the pursuit of power, discover how Verdi’s haunting score brings this dark drama to life.

Listen to the Associate Director, Ian Silverman, explore 5 Things You Need to Know about The Magic Flute.

Dive into the enchanted world of Mozart's The Magic Flute! Join Diana Newman, Alexandra Razskazoff, and Meridian Prall—the three ladies—as we discover how this timeless tale explores themes of love, courage, and enlightenment, all set to Mozart’s magical score.

In this episode, the Atlanta Opera dives into five key insights about their production of Rent—Jonathan Larson’s revolutionary rock opera that transformed Broadway with its raw portrayal of love, friendship, and resilience in the face of HIV/AIDS. This episode is a must-listen for fans of the musical and anyone interested in how Rent maintains its relevance in contemporary culture.

In this episode of BlinkOpera, we dive into our modern reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, set during the COVID-19 pandemic. This contemporary adaptation follows a group of struggling artists as they navigate love, heartbreak, and survival in a world upended by the virus. With lockdowns, isolation, and the threat of illness looming over their lives, the timeless themes of La Bohème take on new...

In this episode of the Atlanta Opera Podcast, we dive into The Bohème Project, an innovative take on two iconic works: Puccini’s classic opera La Bohème and Jonathan Larson’s groundbreaking musical Rent. Set against the stunning industrial backdrop of Pullman Yards, this project brings together the timeless themes of love, artistry, and struggle, told through the unique lenses of both producti...

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 wa...

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 o...

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!

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...

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 p...

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 ...

Welcome to The Atlanta Opera Podcast! Dive into the world of Verdi's classic tragedy, Rigoletto, with bass baritone David Crawford, who plays the role of Count Monterone in our upcoming production. Join us for a quick and captivating synopsis of this timeless opera, as we explore the gripping drama and powerful music that make Rigoletto a true masterpiece. Whether you're an opera aficionado or ...

Welcome to The Atlanta Opera Podcast! Join us for a quick and insightful rundown of the five essential things you need to know about Rigoletto, brought to you by our Assistant Director, Gregory Boyle. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of opera, our podcast provides valuable insights into this timeless masterpiece. Subscribe now to stay informed and enhance yo...

Explore the electrifying inspirations behind Frankenstein: The Movie Opera with composer and conductor Michael Shapiro.

Join Wendy Torrance (Kelly Kaduce and Kearstin Piper Brown) for this BlinkOpera exploring the operatic adaptation of Stephen King's classic thriller, The Shining.

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 actual...

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 introducti...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Class...

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 ari...

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 prog...

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 BlinkOper...

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 Metamorpho...

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 whi...