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An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

The Santa Fe Opera stands as a premier destination for the romance of music and the artistry of live performance. Since its founding, the company has blended professionalism with accessibility to inspire appreciation for opera among diverse audiences worldwide.

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An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

The striking state-of-the-art open-air theater has earned multiple prestigious design awards. (Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Opera)

Whether you're a newcomer or a devoted opera fan, an evening performance under Santa Fe's starry skies delivers unforgettable magic. The architecturally stunning open-air theater boasts sweeping views of the Tesuque Valley and vibrant sunsets over the Jemez Mountains. Merging modern design with traditional materials, it achieves world-class acoustics.

An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

The theater seats 2,128 with an additional 106 standing-room spots. (Photo courtesy of The Santa Fe Opera)

From the venue to the gift shop, the [blog_link url="https://www.santafeopera.org" text="Santa Fe Opera" date="2017-06-20"] offers first-class excellence. Yet its sophisticated vibe welcomes all—New Mexico's diverse crowds dress comfortably, from tuxedos to cowboy boots.

The innovative 2017 season featured acoustic guitar, political satire, and animation across three company premieres, including the world premiere of The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs. This captivating opera explores the Apple founder's influences, personal struggles, and tech empire's triumphs.

An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

For founder John O. Crosby, relentless pursuit of excellence was the "burning point of reason" for the company. (Photo courtesy of The Santa Fe Opera)

Strauss's Die Fledermaus returned after 25 years with vivacious music and a hilarious plot unfolding at Prince Orlovsky's masked ball amid frivolous intrigues.

The Golden Cockerel blended fairytale whimsy and political satire, featuring a pompous monarch, a seductive foe, and military schemes devolving into lovesick folly.

Gaetano Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor and George Frideric Handel's Alcina rounded out the season, kicking off June 30.

First-timers or enthusiasts can enhance their visit with free prelude talks—offered twice before each show—for entertaining, insightful context.

An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

Enjoy tailgating fun at the Santa Fe Opera! (Photo courtesy of The Santa Fe Opera)

Not ready for a full opera? [blog_link url="https://www.santafeopera.org/about-us/apprentice-opportunities/singers/events" text="Apprentice Showcase Scene" date="2017-06-20"] nights provide a 90-minute taste of the venue's splendor and rising stars' iconic scenes. Catch them on Sundays, August 13 and 20.

An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

Fine wine and friends elevate the party—bring water for the 7,000-ft dry altitude. (Photo courtesy of The Santa Fe Opera)

The opera house inspires epic [blog_link url="https://www.santafeopera.org/opera-blog/post/2015/june/the-first-timers-guide-to-great-opera-tailgating" text="tailgating" date="2017-06-20"], from elegant tables to multi-course meals. An on-site cantina offers convenient preordered boxed dinners like duck and salmon.

An Enchanting Evening of Magic at the Santa Fe Opera

A memorable night awaits newcomers and opera lovers alike. (Photo courtesy of The Santa Fe Opera)

With no bad seats, affordable tickets, and something for everyone, the Santa Fe Opera pairs glorious sunsets, exquisite music, and artistry in an architectural gem. No surprise Crosby Theater ranked on USA Today's [blog_link url="https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-outdoor-music-venue/" text="10 Best Outdoor Music Venues" date="2017-06-20"].

Visit now or plan ahead—request the [blog_link url="https://santafe.org/Visitors_Guide/index.html" text="2017 Santa Fe Travel Guide" date="2017-06-20"] and explore [blog_link url="https://santafe.org/Visiting_Santa_Fe/Specials/" text="Deals and Specials" date="2017-06-20"].

This blog was written in partnership with TOURISM Santa Fe and Santa Fe County.

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