Friends of the Opera

Friends of the Opera

Friends of the Opera (FOTO) began in 1974 as
a support group for Opera Grand Rapids.
An independent non-profit organization with more than 150 members, it works to promote the love of opera in West Michigan.

FOTO members help entertain visiting artists, host cast parties and educational events. For details about joining, contact FOTO President at MDLoughman@gmail.com.

Pre-Performance Talks

An informative lecture by opera experts,hosted by Friends of the Opera, this talk is free with the purchase of an opera ticket. Join FOTO at 6:30pm in the Orchestra seating area of DeVos Performance Hall.

November 2 & 3, Samson + Delilah, guest speaker Gil Davis
February 8 & 9, Don Giovanni, guest speaker Glen Peterson
May 3 & 4, La Traviata, guest speaker Dale Schriemer

Maestro Chats

Friends of the Opera hosts this complimentary wine and cheese chat. Join Artistic Director Robert Lyall for a conductor’s insight into the score, history, and characters of Opera. The fun begins at 4pm, at Schuler Books & Music, 2660 28th Street SE.

October 28: Inside Samson + Delilah
February 3: Inside Don Giovanni
April 28: Inside La Traviata

OPERAtunity

Friends of the Opera and St. Cecilia Music Center take teens behind the scenes of an opera with a member of the Opera Grand Rapids’ stage crew.OPERAtunity students receive a pizza dinner, an official production program, and prime seating at our 7:30 pm Student Dress Rehearsal. 6pm, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom NE, Grand Rapids

October 31: Crew of Samson + Delilah
February 6: Crew of Don Giovanni
May 1: Crew of La Traviata

Cost: $10 per 11–18 year old
(must be a middle or high-school student)
To Register: Call 616.459.2224.
You may register a student or an entire class.

Community Cast Party

Friends of the Opera invites the community to celebrate with the Opera’s cast and crew over a bite to eat and a drink.10:30pm the Betty Van Andel Opera Center

November 3: Samson + Delilah
February 9: Don Giovanni
May 4: La Traviata