About the Tri-Cities Opera
Artistic Directors | TCO Board/TCO Staff
Tri-Cities Opera has
been the cultural centerpiece of the Southern Tier of New York for
over fifty years. Founded in 1949 by Peyton Hibbitt and the
late Carmen Savoca, this regional opera company enjoys an
exceptional reputation in the opera world for its artist training
program, beautiful sets and costumes and outstanding opera
productions.
In addition to their remarkable talent, Mr. Savoca and Mr. Hibbitt had the distinguished honor of being the only two artistic directors in America to have actively led a single professional opera company for 49 continuous years. They have conducted and directed in major regional opera houses in the U.S. and Europe, have been honored by the National Board of Directors of Opera America, have received the President's Medal from Binghamton University and have been awarded the prestigious New York State Council on the Arts Governor's Award.
From its beginning in 1949, Tri-Cities Opera has been firmly committed not only to the production of high quality operatic entertainment, but also to the careful training of young singers. TCO Artistic Directors Peyton Hibbitt, Duane Skrabalak and Peter Sicilian have dedicated their lives to developing an approach to operatic training suitable for young singers. Their teaching gives young artists the practical knowledge of language and theatre arts they need, as well as a clear understanding of vocal technique. Skillfully communicating the meanings of text and music is valued above mere sound production.
Mainstage
Practical performance experience is available in leading, featured and comprimario roles in the three major operas produced each season at the 1500 seat Forum Theatre. The choice of seasonal repertoire is based in part upon the ability and talent of the Resident Artists. Rarely are outside performers engaged. AGMA scale is paid to singers cast in leading and featured roles in mainstage productions unless the performance is a thesis requirement.
Opera-Go-Round, Touring Education Program
Opera-Go-Round, the touring outreach program of Tri-Cities Opera, brings a fully-staged repertoire of one-act operas for young people to schools throughout the Southern Tier of New York and northern Pennsylvania. Children's operas and other innovative programs such as CloseUps, Artist Residencies, and master classes, are brought to nearly 30,000 youngsters annually by members of the Resident Artist Training Program. Opera-Go-Round is nationally recognized as a leader in the field of opera for young people.
When and Where
Tri-Cities Opera performs at:
The Forum Theatre
236 Washington Street
Binghamton, New York.
Evening performances begin at 8:00 pm and Sunday matinees at 3:00 pm.
Do I need to Understand a Foreign Language?
NO! All of our operas will be performed in their original languages. But you can understand because we use OPERATITLES, English translations projected above the stage, so you can follow along and not miss a thing.
Where do I Park and What do I Wear?
Parking is readily available in municipal parking lots and garages within one block of The Forum. Regarding your attire, it's your choice, tails, jeans or anything in between!
How Can I Get Tickets?
Just fill out the Order Form or call the TCO Box Office at 607-772-0400. You can also e-mail your request to boxoffice@tricitiesopera.com
How Can I Become More Involved With the Opera?
Become a part of the TCO family by joining the TCO Guild. For a $35 tax deductible membership fee, you'll meet new people, enjoy discounts to Operalogues, receive free admission to a dress rehearsal and more. Guild members also help TCO plan and execute many wonderful events each season so you can feel good about helping TCO thrive. To join, simply check the Opera Guild box on the order form and add $30 for each guild membership to the total.
For more information about the Tri-Cities Opera Guild, call 607-729-3444 or, click here.
Curtain Time
Performances begin promptly! In consideration of other patrons and the artists, latecomers will not be seated until an appropriate scene change or intermission. Please allow adequate time for traffic, parking and inclement weather. If purchasing tickets at the door or picking them up at Will Call Window - arrive at least a half hour before curtain time.
How Will I Know the Story Before I Go?
If you want to find out more about the story before attending the opera, or if you are just in the mood for some fun and music, attend an Operalogue! Artistic Director Duane Skrabalak presents a witty and informative preview with members of the cast singing excerpts from the opera. Each Operalogue is held on the Saturday before opening night at the Clinton Street Opera Center. The modest ticket price includes a reception with the cast members afterwards. You can also hear it on WSKG. Our local public radio station airs the Operalgoue during the week before each opening night. You can also find the storyline to each of this season’s operas in The Season.
