Festival O23
Mark your calendars for September 2023 in Philadelphia, as the fifth iteration of Opera Philadelphia’s annual, season-opening Festival O brings a star-studded lineup of live performances to multiple venues in the city from Sept. 21 through Oct. 1.

“A hotbed of operatic innovation” The New York Times
New Production Simon Boccanegra Academy of Music
A powerhouse cast and some of Verdi's most sumptuous music fuel this sweeping story that mixes political turmoil with poignant family drama.
World Premiere 10 Days in a Madhouse The Wilma Theater
This psychological drama follows trailblazing reporter Nellie Bly through her internment at Blackwell's Asylum, exposing, as Bly did, notions of madness and societal biases against women.
Philadelphia Premiere Unholy Wars Suzanne Roberts Theatre
Conceived by Lebanese American tenor Karim Sulayman, music by Handel and Monteverdi is interwoven with that of composer Mary Kouyoumjdian to explore and reclaim representations of identity, to reveal a new story of belonging and resilience.
“One of the most enjoyable additions to the fall calendar in years” The Washington Post
Afternoons at AVA Academy of Vocal Arts
Alumni of the Academy of Vocal Arts return to their training grounds and are joined by current Resident Artists for a recital series. Singers and repertoire to be announced this summer.
Curtis Voices Curtis Institute of Music
Emergent singers trained at Philadelphia's prestigious Curtis Institute of Music perform in recital at the historic and intimate Field Concert Hall. Singers and repertoire to be announced this summer.
Late Night Snacks
The Bearded Ladies Cabaret returns to share a new selection of guilty pleasures, soul nourishment, and tasty cabaret treats in the annual Late Night Snacks series, presented as part of Festival O23 and the 2023 Philadelphia Fringe Festival. A delicious venue and menu of performers will be announced this summer.