Opera-Maxxing

Virginia Opera explores love, sex and murder in the 2026-27 season.

Murderous clowns, spine tingling arias and witches that eat children are just a few highlights of the Virginia Opera 26-27 season. Artistic Director Adam Turner anchored the season with Italian operas “Pagliacci” and “Turandot,” two productions that haven’t been performed in more than a decade. He rounded out the calendar with the classic tale “Hansel & Gretel.”

This year the company is also taking risks by debuting new works by contemporary composers exploring themes of love, sex and passion. “It’s important for new audiences to say that we’re cool, but it’s also important to show seasoned veterans there’s more than just Puccini and Verdi,” says Turner.

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