Opera Philadelphia presents O22 Festival

I have to say a special thank you to Opera Philadelphia for helping me with a dream of attending an opera show! I attended Otello and it was hands down amazing. How I have gone this long and not attending an opera show before now is beyond me. So how was my first experience?

Opera Philadelphia and Conshohocken Brewing Company

Prior to the show, Otello we were invited to Jet Wine Bar. While there we had the opportunity to enjoy wine and the new collaboration of Hops and Opera called Hopera. It is really good. I enjoyed it. It’s a taste of drama in every can. So if you have some time head to Jet Wine Bar and grab some to go or enjoy while you are there. The purchase of the beer will help to support Opera Philadelphia. Special thanks to Allied and Opera Philadelphia for the Friday night bites and drinks before the show. Jet Wine Bar is a whole vibe. I am definitely going back.

Otello

Otello is showing now until October 2, 2022. It’s a Opera Philadelphia premiere. After finding my seats which were extremely close, the excitement settled in quickly. The show started on time. From the first curtain opening I was mesmerized. Opera and storytelling through singing is so dear to me. Otello is Rossini’s version of Shakespeare Othello. It’s purely moving and the singing is so dynamic that you can’t help but to feel the emotions. Although it is performed in Italian, they provide English subtitles. While you are watching it the performers engage you through song on so many levels. It’s truly something to see. 

Come early and grab a drink or snack before the show. Otello is showing at the Academy of Music. The ushers made it easy for everyone to get into their seats without incident. The show is 3 hours with a 20 minute intermission. It goes fast because in my opinion. It’s like watching this drama unfold through the best singers you have ever heard. Each of them are strong. Their energy feeding off of one another is truly beautiful to see. There are aspects of violence and even death. So be careful with younger audience members. I saw a child that appeared to be arong the same age as my own youngest child. The little girl in front of me did just fine. Get your tickets now.

Opera Festival and O22 Festival Line Up

Keep in mind that during this time from now until October 2, 2022 there are other shows showcasing. At the time of this blog, The Raven and Afternoons at AVA are all sold out. If that isn’t more of a push to make sure that you get tickets now I don’t know what is. Black Lodge is available but both shows on October 1 and 2nd already has limited seating. Blac Lodge also fuses rock and opera together.

This festival is to help bring the shows to life and to help spread the awareness that Opera is very much alive and well here in the Philadelphia region. If you have never been like I hadn’t before this showing, now is the time to experience it.  

Opera on Film 

If you are more a film buff and want to see Opera in the film form, Opera Philadelphia has you covered. There are several showings available. See them individually and enjoy some of the best opera films. Get your tickets now.

Overall I had the most amazing time at the Festival O22. I will be back for Friday’s Giargiari Bel Canto Competition at 7:30 at the Kimmel Center’s’ Perelman Theater. 

Philadelphia’s own Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA) trains the world’s next generation of great opera singers. For over 40 years, AVA’s Giargiari Bel Canto competition has showcased the brightest of up-and-coming opera stars. Join AVA for the annual audience favorite singing competition, where AVA’s award-winning Resident Artists compete against each other in song. Audiences will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite singer!

So if you have never attended an Opera, Festival O22 is your opportunity. The atmosphere is very welcoming. You will have the best time ever. Thank you to Opera Philadelphia, and Allied for having me as your guest. From the fun pre show at Jet Wine Bar to the show, my night was made. 

Thanks again Opera Philadelphia, Jet Wine Bar, and Allied for having me.