Upcoming Opera and Dance Performances
The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale serves as a cautionary tale that forces reflection on whether America’s core values—freedom and separation of church and state—are at risk. The Handmaid’s Tale provides a chilling look into an imagined future, where America’s fragile democracy collapses into religious tyranny. Echoing contemporary concerns about the overlap between government and religion, this fictional story is timelier than ever.
March 1-7, 2026
OPERA
Paul Taylor Dance Company
Since its founding in 1954, the Paul Taylor Dance Company has been a groundbreaking force in American modern dance and has been described by The New York Times as “one of the most exciting, innovative and delightful dance companies in the entire world.”
April 11 & 12, 2026
DANCE
Apartment House 1776
As the United States approaches its semiquincentennial, Detroit Opera invites you to Apartment 1776, a revolutionary, immersive operatic experience staged inside the galleries of the Cranbrook Art Museum. Originally conceived by John Cage for the US bicentennial in 1976, Apartment House 1776 places you at the crossroads of the nation’s colonial foundations, imagined as a chorus of voices drifting from apartment windows. Listen, share, and consider how the multiplicity of 1776 still resonates today. No two audience members will have the same experience!
*Production Premiere*
May 21-24, 2026
Opera
Detroit Opera House Presents
Bugs Bunny at the Symphony
April 18 & 19, 2026
This beloved concert has played to millions all over the world with over 300 major orchestras, and now makes its Detroit Opera premiere just in time to celebrate Bugs Bunny’s 85th Birthday.
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Mariachi Vargas: El Legado Tour
May 9, 2026 | 7:30pm
Bring the whole family for an unforgettable evening of passion, tradition, and music as the world’s most celebrated mariachi ensemble, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, takes the stage at the Detroit Opera House. Founded in 1897 in Jalisco, Mexico, Mariachi Vargas continues its extraordinary six-generation legacy of excellence—hailed across the globe as “El Mejor Mariachi del Mundo.”
GameSymphonic with Eímear Noone
June 13, 2026 | 7:30pm
Award-winning video game music conductor and composer Eímear Noone is taking us on a journey to magical worlds, post-apocalyptic wastelands, Godly Labyrinths, and the homes of our favourite Disney characters, presented through the gift of gaming. As one of the world’s leading composers of games scores, Eímear is responsible for some of the most enduring soundscapes on World of WarCraft and other best-selling games.
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The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration
October 10, 2026 | 8:00pm
This is Whitney Houston, as you’ve never seen her before! The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration concert event features the original master and remastered recordings of Whitney’s vocals set to unique and one-of-a-kind orchestrations of her biggest hits played by the Detroit Opera Orchestra —including “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Higher Love,” and “I Will Always Love You.” The music is accompanied by never before-seen home movies, film performances, plus some of her historic performances.
LEARN MOREDetroit Opera…has placed itself at the center of the operatic conversation”
David Allen
The New York Times
Featured Events
Free Community Events: The Handmaid’s Tale
February 4 – March 9, 2026
Join Detroit Opera for a series of free community events leading up to The Handmaid’s Tale. Moderated discussions with local experts will explore key themes from the opera — including female disempowerment, reproductive rights, and control—examining how patriarchal systems use religious extremism and political power to oppress women, as well as themes of survival, memory, and resistance.
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Sip & Stroll at Detroit Opera
Next Tour: February 19, 2026 | 6:00pm
Enjoy a memorable 90-minute experience inside the beautiful and historic Detroit Opera House. This 21+ gathering features a guided tour, plus a glass of premium red or white wine, bottled water, and light snacks. Please bring valid ID; guests must be 21 or older. Doors open 5:30 pm – Stage Door Entrance on Madison Street. The guided tour begins directly following wine service promptly at 6:10 pm. Doors close at 6:45 pm.
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Detroit Opera House Tours
Next tours: February 28, 2026
Join us for a 55-minute Detroit Opera House Highlights Tour! Tours offer participants the chance to see our beautiful, historic 1922 theater, designed by renowned architect C. Howard Crane. Tickets are available online at the Box Office (Broadway Street) during regular business hours. “Day of” tickets must be purchased online using a personal device.
The Hobbit
May 2, 2026 | 2:00pm
Step into the magical world of Middle Earth as the Detroit Opera Youth Chorus brings J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved tale The Hobbit to life in Dean Burry’s thrilling operatic adaptation. Filled with vibrant characters, lyrical storytelling, and spirited music, this production captures all the wonder, humor, and courage that have made The Hobbit a timeless favorite for generations. Suitable for audiences of all ages, it’s a perfect introduction to opera for young fans and families alike.
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The Cadillac Café Lounge
Elevate your Detroit Opera experience with exclusive pre-show and intermission lounge access! Pre-show, you’ll enjoy an elegant evening in our Cadillac Café with a welcome drink (beer, wine, or soda), a delectable charcuterie box, table or bar seating, complimentary coat check (in lobby), and access to the Café restroom. At intermission, return to the Café for access to an exclusive cash bar. Cadillac Café lounge access is available for just $40 per person.
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Read our 25/26 Season Brochure!
Big Questions: Season One
Detroit Opera embarks on a season-long exploration of American identity as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In inspiring and original productions, we invite you to participate in a dialogue around the question: Has America at 250 lived up to its promise? Click below to read our season brochure.
OUR 25/26 SEASON BROCHURE