(This article has been updated to add in new information.)
As the nation’s 250th anniversary coincides with Opera Columbus’ 45th year, the company will mark both milestones with a new season of works significant to the American cultural landscape.
The 2026-27 season, “American Icons,” will offer a diverse bill of fare that could explain why Opera Columbus is known for its gutsy, eclectic choices.
That’s not code for “shows you don’t know in languages you don’t understand.” In fact, if you’ve heard of Gilbert and Sullivan or Stephen King (yes, that Stephen King), at least two upcoming productions will ring a bell.
But don’t be surprised if those shows throw you off the beaten path with fresh takes that make them relevant to modern audiences.
“For me, (the theme) wasn’t about dwelling in nostalgia because, yes, America is turning 250, which is important, but it’s also about reexamining the American identity through bold, ambitious storytelling that inspires our community,” said Julia Noulin-Mérat, general director and CEO of Opera Columbus.
The season opener, “Pirates! The Penzance Musical,” will drop anchor Nov. 6-8 at the Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St. A reimagining of Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic, “The Pirates of Penzance,” the jazzy Broadway romp is set in New Orleans instead of Cornwall.
“They refreshed ‘Pirates of Penzance,’ empowered the characters and changed the score,” Noulin-Mérat said. “It’s really bursting with rhythm.
Noulin-Mérat hinted that audiences should expect this co-production with Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) to be on par with 2025’s “West Side Story.” That collaboration involved Opera Columbus, CAPA, BalletMet, and Columbus Symphony.
Tickets for “Pirates! The Penzance Musical” will cost $17-$135. Additional ticket information is below, along with details about other shows in the 2026-27 season, which will include:
‘The Girl of the Golden West (La Fanciulla del West)’
Feb. 26 and Feb. 28, 2027, Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St.
Set during the Gold Rush of 1849, this opera is powered by a score that Noulin-Mérat called “dangerous” and “emotionally” explosive.
“Puccini is mostly known for ‘La bohème’ and ‘(Madame)’ Butterfly.’ This piece inspired ‘Music of the Night’ from ‘Phantom of the Opera.’ I think people don’t know how much they love this show,” she said.
Tickets will cost $17-$135.
‘The Shining’
April 16-18, 2027, Palace Theatre
Featuring Paul Moravec’s haunting score, this psychological drama will take audiences inside the Torrance family’s isolation and horror at the Overlook Hotel. The production will be directed by principal guest conductor Everett McCorvey.
Noulin-Mérat said the production follows Stephen King’s novel rather than the 1980 Stanley Kubrick film – great timing since performances will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the book.
Tickets will cost $17-$135.
The Cooper-Bing Competition
May 16, 2027, Southern Theatre
Called “the Olympics of Opera,” the internationally recognized vocal competition draws more than 300 applicants who must be tapered down to five finalists who will compete for a $10,000 grand prize.
“What’s really cool is the audience gets to judge, too. People are very excited to champion the next generation of talent,” Noulin-Mérat said.
“It also brings Columbus to the center stage in terms of international dialogue with next-generation talent.”
Tickets will cost $22.
‘Messiah’ sing-alongs
December 2027, dates and locations to be announced
Sing Handel’s magnum opus with Opera Columbus during free pop-ups at breweries and cafés across the city.
“It’s fully participatory and feels very immersive,” Noulin-Mérat said. “A pop-up is a truly joyful moment.”
Know if you plan to go
Subscriptions for the 2026-27 season will go on sale April 20, and single tickets will go on sale June 1. Tickets and other information will be available at operacolumbus.org.
Opera Columbus performances include surtitles, and audio descriptions and braille programs are also available. For hearing-impaired patrons, the company also offers vibrating vests that pulse to the rhythm of the music.
There’s no dress code, so you won’t be out of place in jeans and other casual attire, plus refreshments can be taken to your seats. Between sips and bites, you’re free to take non-flash photography and applaud (or hoot) during favorite moments.
“Our motto is, ‘Make it yours,’” Noulin-Mérat. “So, we invite people to come as they are.”
Contact features and entertainment reporter Belinda M. Paschal at bpaschal@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Opera Columbus reveals new season with Stephen King’s ‘The Shining’
Reporting by Belinda M. Paschal, Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
