Opera Theatre
Welcome to SIUE Opera Theatre!
SIUE Opera Theatre is proud to be recognized as one of the premier institutions for opera study and performance in the Midwest. Each season, we present a minimum of two fully staged productions in addition to an opera scenes program, providing students with extensive opportunities to develop their artistry and stagecraft. Our diverse student body represents a wide range of musical interests and backgrounds, which is reflected in the breadth and variety of our programming. The 2026–2027 SIUE Opera Theatre season features a Fall Opera Scenes production, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, and a collaborative production of Carmen with the Arch City Opera Project.
Students participating in SIUE Opera Theatre engage in rigorous training in stage movement, acting, character development, and the study of operatic repertoire. Our performers regularly gain professional experience beyond campus, appearing in productions throughout the St. Louis region, including with Winter Opera St. Louis and Union Avenue Opera. In addition, select students have the opportunity to earn SIUE academic credit through approved performances with professional opera organizations, further strengthening the connection between their academic training and professional development.
We are committed to cultivating relationships with regional arts organizations. SIUE Opera Theatre enjoys a strong collaboration with the professional opera company, Opera Edwardsville. For years, SIUE students have been featured in concert, video, and children’s opera performances. In addition, Opera Edwardsville offers masterclasses to SIUE students with professional artists in residence.
SIUE Opera Theatre is open to all majors, but involvement may be limited based on the repertoire performed. Students can register for MUS 460A or MUS 460B Opera Workshop to participate in productions. Please reach out to Dr. Marc Schapman, Director of SIUE Opera Theatre, with more questions. See you at the opera!
