Opera Circle specializes in presenting opera in intimate settings, either the Bohemian National Hall – a miniature of a Prague opera house – or several other venues. Their repertoire is primarily bel canto (Donizetti and Bellini), Mozart, and relatively unknown Polish composers, with a smattering of other works. Many productions are regional premieres and one – Thamos, King of Egypt, which blends an original score by Mozart with additional music by contemporary composer Halim El-Dabh – was a world premiere.
Co-founder Dorota Sobieska explains the company’s name: “How do we access this sensitive spot that allows us to build opera in the mind of every participating person? By making opera close, tangible, accessible, your own, by placing the audience and the performers together in one circle, hence Opera Circle.”
Along with her husband Jacek Sobieski, Sobieska founded Opera Circle in 1995. Sobieski is music director and conductor, while Sobieska acts as executive director as she handles staging, market, fundraising, PR and frequently sings major roles (she’s also a featured soloist in other Cleveland musical groups). And their three children frequently have parts as well.
- Public Transportation: Varies by venue
- Handicapped Accessibility: Depends on venue
- Performances/Programs: Four-five per season with multiple performances of each
- Ticket Prices: Each performance is priced individually. General admission seating is on a first-come first-serve basis, sponsored seats are reserved. Student w/ID receive a discount.
