From July 2 to August 28, 2027, the Santa Fe Opera celebrates its 70th Season with five productions spanning grand opera, comedy, psychological drama and contemporary music. Set against the spectacular high-desert landscape of New Mexico, the festival combines celebrated masterpieces with new productions and an eagerly anticipated American premiere.

The season opens with Puccini’s Turandot, returning to Santa Fe for the first time since 2005 in a new-to-the-company production directed by Paul Curran and conducted by John Fiore. The cast features acclaimed soprano Angela Meade in the title role, tenor Arturo Chacón-Cruz as Calàf and soprano Kathleen O’Mara as Liù.

Rossini’s The Barber of Seville follows on July 3 in the popular 2022 production by Stephen Barlow, while Mozart’s Così fan tutte arrives on July 17 in a new staging by Amy Lane, conducted by Erina Yashima. The cast brings together Mané Galoyan and Samantha Hankey as Fiordiligi and Dorabella, alongside Giovanni Sala and Justin Austin in their Santa Fe debuts.

On July 24, Janáček’s Kátya Kabanová receives a new production directed by David Pountney and conducted by Santa Fe Opera Music Director Harry Bicket. Ailyn Pérez takes the title role, joined by John Findon, Rosie Aldridge, Ryan Capozzo, Emily Sierra, Peixin Chen and John Daszak.

The festival culminates in the American premiere of Brett Dean’s Of One Blood, a contemporary opera exploring the intertwined lives of Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I. Directed by Claus Guth, the production features Emily Richter as Mary Stuart and Ambur Braid as Elizabeth I.

Beyond the mainstage productions, the season includes the Apprentice Scenes on August 15 and a Gala Concert on August 22 featuring the Santa Fe Opera Orchestra and the next generation of opera artists, conducted by Erina Yashima. Tailgate picnics, preview dinners, backstage tours and free Prelude Talks add to the distinctive atmosphere of a summer evening at Santa Fe Opera.

About the Santa Fe Opera Festival

Set against the dramatic landscape of northern New Mexico, the Santa Fe Opera Festival is one of the most distinctive and internationally respected opera festivals in the United States. Known for its innovative productions, breathtaking natural setting, and commitment to artistic excellence, the festival offers a unique experience where opera, architecture, and the beauty of the Southwest come together.

Founded in 1957 by John Crosby, the festival was created with a vision of presenting opera in a new and inspiring environment. Since its beginnings, Santa Fe Opera has become famous for its adventurous repertoire, combining beloved masterpieces with rare works and new commissions that expand the boundaries of the art form.

The festival’s home is the remarkable Santa Fe Opera House, an open-air theatre designed to embrace the surrounding landscape. With its distinctive architecture and spectacular views of the New Mexico sky, the venue transforms every performance into a visual and musical experience. Sunsets, stars, and the natural scenery become part of the evening’s atmosphere.

Each summer, the festival brings together leading international singers, conductors, directors, and designers to create a season of opera at the highest level. Its artistic identity is shaped by bold interpretations, exceptional young talent, and a dedication to both tradition and innovation.

Beyond performances, Santa Fe Opera is also renowned for its prestigious apprentice programs, which support emerging artists and contribute to the future of opera. Many internationally acclaimed performers began their careers through the festival’s development programs.

Visionary, inspiring, and uniquely connected to its surroundings, the Santa Fe Opera Festival offers an unforgettable celebration of opera where world-class artistry meets the breathtaking spirit of the American Southwest.