WT Opera

About WT Opera

Under the direction of Sarah Beckham-Turner, the Opera program at WT is growing quickly. WT Opera performs two fully staged productions annually, one with a full orchestra. In addition to our staged productions, we perform community outreach productions and concerts, host an annual Opera Gala, and are the proud hosts of the Annual Eric Barry Vocal Competition.

Our goal is to provide students with real-world training to prepare them for careers in the performing arts, and for our students who plan to be educators, involvement in opera will better prepare them for organizing programs with students and guide those who have interests in performing careers. We continue to bring in working professionals from the opera world to act as mentors to the students.

The 2026-27 Season

Purchase Opera Tickets

Wellington Jazz Night July 1, 2026 | Courtyard at Wellington Square
Kick off the summer with "Sizzlin' Summer Singin' " a spectacular performance by WT Opera & Alumni! With wine provided by Republic National. Sweets + Meats will have their charcuterie cart there too!

One Ounce Operas September 11, 2026 | Legacy Hall
An evening of short operas in partnership with Pondaseta, specially staged as our students prepare for the National Opera Conference.

"Proving Up" (A Horror Opera) October 28 – November 1, 2026 | Northern Hall
Experience this haunting production during NATS! Stay tuned for details on our exclusive pre-show fundraiser dinner in mid-October!

"Little Match Girl" December 4, 2026 | Arts in the Sunset & Amarillo Public Library
Don't miss the World Premiere of this children’s opera by WT alumnist Mitchell Hernandez. A beautiful public concert performance to welcome the winter season.

Annual Opera Gala January 30, 2027 | Alumni Banquet Hall
Our biggest fundraising night of the year! Join us as we honor Adair Buckner. Tickets available through a 3rd party ticketing system, stay tuned for more information.

"Hello Dolly!" April 14-18, 2027 | The Branding Iron Theater
A massive joint production with WT Theatre and WT Symphony that you won't want to miss!

The Eric Barry Competition Dates & Location TBD
Returning this year with exciting new audience participation elements!

Season Highlights

Support WT Opera

WT Opera Supporters

James and Pamela Beckham Opera Endowment

Season Sponsor: Daniel P. Olsen

Production Sponsor: Schaeffer Family

Supporters: Amarillo National Bank, Bruce and Cindy Barrett, Erich and Joanne Drochner, JCSB Wealth Management, Audrey and Lance Nones & Martin and Becky Lopez, Mickey’s Place, Dee Miller and Oth Miller, Pondaseta Brewery, Sayakomarn’s, Patrick and LaRhonda Swindell

Friends of WT Opera: James Beckham, Adair and Dale Buckner, Dr. Robert Hansen and Lee Persefield

Get Involved with WT Opera

Support WT Opera and help provide opportunities for our talented students.

Support WT Opera

Your support helps WT Opera continue providing performance, educational and professional opportunities for our students.

Donate to WT Opera

Volunteer with WT Opera

Want to support our talented students? We are looking for volunteers to help with concession stands, housing guest artists, and gathering gala auction items. Drop us a message to join the Friends of WT Opera volunteer team!

Join the Friends of WT Opera