A History of Queer Representation in Opera

Over the centuries, opera has had a complicated history with gender and sexual diversity. Despite a number of queer icons in opera, many laws and social outlooks on sexuality over the years made it near impossible to portray queerness on stage. But that didn't stop many composers from putting queer-coded characters in their work. Luckily, queerness in opera saw major strides in the 70s and again in the 90s as audiences became more open-minded, allowing for more diverse stories to be told. This Pride month, we're taking a look at the history of queer representation and the groundbreaking works that we believe define the modern age of opera.

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Our 2023/24 Photo Recap

Time flies when you're having fun, and that's most certainly the case for this season!

From the dazzling projections of Don Giovanni to David Hockney's bold designs for Turandot, LA Opera has played host to a myriad of different settings, inhabited by equally colorful personalities. Now that our season has come to an end, take a moment to look back at our various productions, both on and off the main stage. Click below to join us for a trip down memory lane.

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Welcoming a New Angeleno

The Natural History Museum is so excited for the community to see its one-of-a-kind GREEN dinosaur skeleton in its new home and the Museum’s new wing, NHM Commons, when it opens this Fall. But first, the dinosaur needs a name, and NHM wants to include YOU in picking one!

The colossal skeleton will be the first of its kind in the world to be mounted for display. Now through June 20, vote below and help name LA’s New Green Dinosaur!

VOTE HERE

Leave a Lasting Legacy

To keep our thrilling productions going, LA Opera relies on support from donors like you. Consider making the art form—and this company—part of your legacy.

Many are surprised to learn that they can make a gift they never thought possible by combining different types of gifts.

To delve more deeply into creative blends of gift instruments, including several examples, start your journey with us:

Request our complimentary guide below!

REQUEST GUIDE

Connect with LA Opera

Shake things up this year with LA Opera Connects.

Applications are now open for the 2024/25 season, with exciting opportunities to join us for an opera, learn more about the art form, and even get on stage.

Browse our "What's New" page to discover programs for teachers, students, families, aspiring performers—anyone who is curious about opera.

Click below to sign up now for an unforgettable year of operatic adventures. We can't wait to connect!

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Ballet Hispánico

Witness an explosive portrait of Eva "Evita" Perón and the complexities of artistic excellence and advocacy with Doña Perón. Evita concealed her shameful past as she rose in the ranks from dancehall performer to Argentina’s First Lady. Colombian-Belgian choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa explores these diverging legacies and more in her evening-length work for Ballet Hispánico and reclaims the narrative of the iconic Latina figure.

Use promo code BHLAO by June 22nd for 20% off select seats to the July 12th performance.

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