Let’s Talk Opera

The Let’s Talk Opera lecture series has ended with the final episode Madama Butterfly in March 2024. You can find the links to all past episodes here.

Let’s Talk Opera | Madama Butterfly

In this episode, Josh Borths tackles one of opera’s most beloved works – Madama Butterfly!

Let’s Talk Opera | Sanctuary Road

This episode will take an in-depth look at the Commonwealth premiere of Sanctuary Road!

Let’s Talk Opera | The Barber of Seville

In this episode, Josh Borths tackles the comedy, The Barber of Seville, the prequel opera to Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. 

Let’s Talk Opera | Siegfried

In this episode, Resident Scholar Josh Borths gives us an in-depth look at Siegfried, the third opera of Wagner’s Ring cycle.

Let’s Talk Opera | La Traviata

Let’s Talk La Traviata! Join our Resident Scholar, Joshua Borths for an in-depth look at one of opera’s most popular (and most tragic) love stories!

Let’s Talk Opera | Fellow Travelers

In this episode, Josh Borths will examine the opera Fellow Travelers, including the differences between contemporary and modern operas, the historical background of the 1950s, and what to listen for during the opera.

Let’s Talk Opera | The Pirate Episode

In this episode, Resident Scholar Josh Borths gives us an in-depth look at the history of the Gilbert & Sullivan classic opera, The Pirates of Penzance.

Let’s Talk Opera | The Valkyrie

This episode will examine the history of the Ring cycle’s most famous opera, The Valkyrie as well as why Wagner’s music is still performed today.

Let’s Talk Opera | The Marriage of Figaro

In this episode, Josh Borths will examine “The Marriage of Figaro”! Learn the history behind the hijinks of the beloved Mozart piece, how controversy almost kept the instant classic off the stage, and much more.

Let’s Talk Opera | Three Decembers

In this episode, Jake Heggie is joining us on Let’s Talk Opera! Heggie is the composer of Dead Man Walking, Moby-Dick, It’s A Wonderful Life, Virginia Opera’s upcoming production: Three Decembers, and several more! He has composed nearly 300 songs, as well as chamber, choral, and orchestral works, and he’ll be ready to answer your questions!

Let’s Talk Opera | La Bohème

This episode will examine “La Bohème: Rodolfo Remembers” and get you up to speed on who dates who, who breaks up with who, and everything in between. 

Let’s Talk Opera | Das Rheingold

In this episode, Josh, joined by Adam, will provide an overview of Rheingold, our production, and even field questions from the audience. We look forward to “seeing you there”.