Heroes, villains, intrigue, comedy, and cliffhangers. Imagine everything we cherish about stories, entwined with glorious singing and music by beloved masters like Mozart, Puccini and Strauss. That’s opera! And our audience, artists, volunteers, and supporters make it happen here in Southeast Connecticut. Together, they create the alchemy that brings art—Salt Marsh Opera style—to life.
From merry scandals and romantic antics to sorrow and tragedy, grand operas like The Marriage of Figaro, Madama Butterfly, Rigoletto, and Die Fledermaus take flight each spring and fall. Three outdoor events—Opera in the Park, Music at the Lighthouse, and Broadway on the Lawn—brighten the summer season, while appearances at private functions, arts organizations, and popular attractions, plus educational experiences for adults and children keep the opera spirit gleaming year-round.
Why Salt Marsh Opera? Performing art lovers get their fill of gifted singers from New York City and the West Coast, as well as top regional musicians and gorgeous sets, costumes, and props. They also find we’re:
Welcoming With down-to-earth passion for the arts, Salt Marsh Opera promises a refreshing atmosphere.
Accessible The emotions and fun seen and felt through the music make each opera story a delight.
Inspiring Infused with heart and wit, the memory of our performances lingers long after the applause.
Based in Stonington, CT, Salt Marsh Opera was formed in 2000 by twelve friends who relished their annual opera party (think singing, food, wine, and flying flowers!). It was such fun they started their own company. Creating first-class productions, and hiring professional singers and musicians were must-haves, but so was keeping the door open to their community; for that reason, there’s always a place for local talent among cast and crew.
There’s more to the story… Underlying all we do is our commitment to heightening appreciation for the arts, opening doors to new enthusiasts, and ensuring artistic culture thrives in our communities.
Opera embraces many crafts—singing, playing, staging, set design, lighting, costuming, conducting, and more. Through our in-school programs, youngsters discover these many pathways to a creative life as well as spark their imaginations for classic artistic expression. Young adults bent on making their mark in theater ignite their dreams with hands-on mentorships. Like-minded organizations partner with us to infuse opera spirit well beyond our doors, while adults explore opportunities for learning, making new connections, and paying their delight forward.
Our community makes it possible! Thank goodness for the many people that make Salt Marsh Opera possible! Our singers, musicians, production crew, interns, volunteers, supporters, board members, and staff—and wonderful guests—make our purpose complete. Their dedication and energy bring joy to our performances and life to our mission.
