Fort Worth Opera Welcomes New Director of Education and Community Engagement, New Resident Artists for 2024-25 Season ..read more

Long Time Pro Returns in Dual Role as Single Ticket Sales Begin for Ambitious New Season (Fort Worth, Texas) – Fort Worth Opera announced the return of former management team stalwart Kurt Howard to the combined role of Production Manager and Stage Manager. Howard previously served the company in this dual position ten years ago, from 2004 to 2014. “We are thrilled that Kurt has chosen to return,” said Fort Worth Opera General & Artistic Director Angela Turner Wilson. “He was a crucial part of the team during a previous period of intense development, and he’s coming back to us with ..read more

Music is a universal language that transcends cultures and generations. But beyond its ability to entertain and inspire, music holds a surprising power to impact our cognitive abilities and overall development. In this episode of "Opera with Joe," Maestro Joe Illick delves into the fascinating science behind music, exploring how it can enhance memory, boost brain development, and improve cognitive function. Sharpening Your Mind Through Melody: Maestro Joe will dissect the ways music interacts with the brain, highlighting areas associated with memory and l ..read more

The ico nic Frida Kahlo, a legendary artist known for her vibrant self-portraits and bold artistic style, comes alive on stage in a unique and captivating production – ¡Bienvenidos de Frida Kahlo! In this episode of "Opera with Joe," Maestro Joe Illick invites you on a journey to explore this fascinating show, a vibrant celebration of Frida Kahlo's life and legacy. Beyond the Canvas: ¡Bienvenidos! de Frida Kahlo is more than just an opera; it's a multi-faceted experience. Maestro Joe will delve into the unique format of this production, showcasing how it blends opera with other art forms ..read more

The enchanting world of opera, with its soaring melodies, dramatic narratives, and captivating costumes, might seem like an adult domain. But what if we told you it could be the perfect introduction to the performing arts for your child? In this episode of "Opera with Joe," Maestro Joe Illick tackles the question: Is opera good for kids? Spark Curiosity and Ignite a Love of Music: Maestro Joe dives into the many reasons why opera can be a delightful and enriching experience for young audiences. He'll explore how the visual spectacle of opera costumes and sets can capture a child's imagina ..read more

https://youtu.be/GJLTyWDCjpw Louisa May Alcott's Little Women is a timeless coming-of-age story that transcends generations. But did you know this beloved novel has also found a vibrant new life on the operatic stage? In this episode of "Opera with Joe," Maestro Joe Illick invites you to step into the world of Mark Adamo's Little Women – a captivating operatic adaptation that breathes fresh life into the March sisters. From Novel to Stage: Maestro Joe will dissect the fascinating process of transforming Alcott's cherished story into a powerful opera. He'll discuss the challenges a ..read more

Fairytales hold a special place in our hearts, and the magic of Cinderella continues to captivate audiences worldwide. But did you know there's a whole opera dedicated to this beloved story? In this episode of "Opera with Joe," Maestro Joe Illick invites you on a delightful journey into Gioachino Rossini's La Cenerentola "Cinderella"! Beyond the Glass Slipper: While the core storyline remains familiar, La Cenerentola offers a refreshing twist on the classic Cinderella tale. Maestro Joe dives into the opera's Italian libretto, highlighting how it presents a wittier and slightly m ..read more

Welcome back, opera enthusiasts! Today, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming episode of Opera With Joe, where we delve into the world of Subscriptions. Join Maestro Joe Illick as he shares insights on the benefits of subscribing to the 24/25 Fort Worth Opera Season, offering a glimpse into a season of unforgettable performances.   In the fast-paced world of entertainment, opera subscriptions offer a unique opportunity for audiences to immerse themselves in a curated selection of world-class performances while enjoying a host of exclusive benefits and privileges. From priority seat ..read more

Welcome back, opera enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a journey into the world of inclusivity and accessibility with the latest episode of Opera With Joe titled "What are Relaxed Performances?" Join Maestro Joe Illick as he delves into the concept of relaxed performances and their importance in making opera accessible to all.   In our diverse and ever-evolving society, the arts have a powerful role to play in fostering inclusivity and celebrating the richness of human experience. Yet, for many individuals with sensory sensitivities, disabilities, or neurodiverse conditions, attending t ..read more

Welcome back, art enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a journey into the heart of culture and creativity with the latest episode of Opera With Joe titled "Why is Supporting the Arts Important?" Join Maestro Joe Illick as he shines a spotlight on the profound impact of the arts on our society and why investing in culture is essential for our collective well-being.   In our fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the importance of the arts in our lives. But as Maestro Joe Illick explains, the arts play a vital role in shaping our identities, fostering empathy, and building bridges between in ..read more