Arizona Opera to take upcoming shows 'beyond downtown'

Arizona Opera is looking to introduce opera to new audiences by bringing live performances to unexpected venues across the state.

Taking place in both the fall and spring, the new Beyond Downtown program will reach beyond the walls of the theaters in which the company typically performs in the Phoenix Metro. Performances start on Friday, Oct. 25.

“By stepping outside our traditional theaters, we’re creating opportunities for people across Arizona to experience opera in new, approachable, and engaging settings,” Joseph Specter, Arizona Opera president and general director, shared in a press release.

The initiative kicks off with two distinct operatic works this month then will continue in the coming months with a pop-up performance program and an immersive performance of a Mozart classic scheduled for spring.

“The Tell Tale Heart,” with music and libretto by Gregg Kallor, is a one-act opera inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s classic tale. The narrator descends into madness in this psychological horror enhanced by a score and eerie atmosphere. An optional, pre-show experience will feature a dramatic reading of the story and complimentary themed drink.

“The Tell Tale Heart” will perform at 8 p.m. both Friday, Oct. 25 and Saturday, Oct. 26 at the Arizona Opera Center, at 1636 N. Central Ave., in Phoenix.

“The Coyotes & The Rabbits,” a bilingual children’s opera, with music and lyrics by Héctor Armienta, is a one-act opera inspired by a Mexican folk tale. When Scrawny Coyote discovers that reading is just as important as hunting, he gets tangled up in playful tricks against his cousin, Loco Coyote.

“The Coyotes & The Rabbits” will show at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27 inside The Virginia G. Piper Theater at the Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. A second show will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2 inside Steele Auditorium at the Heard Museum, at 2301 N. Central Ave., in Phoenix.

The shows will be performed in English with English and Spanish supertitles.

Visit azopera.org for a complete schedule, ticket information, and location details.