September 24, 2025
A Stage for Everyone: North Carolina Opera Brings World-Class Music to Raleigh
Opera, Reimagined for the Triangle
For 16 seasons, North Carolina Opera (NCO) has been enriching Raleigh’s cultural scene with performances that blend tradition, innovation, and local connection. As a Best of Raleigh Gold Founding Partner, NCO has become a cornerstone of the Triangle’s performing arts community, presenting the finest musical artists in works ranging from Mozart and Verdi to contemporary composers like Philip Glass and Tyshawn Sorey.
Whether you’re a longtime opera lover or discovering it for the first time, NCO makes the experience engaging, accessible, and deeply moving—an essential addition to the list of things to do in Raleigh.
Who They Are: More Than Music
North Carolina Opera is dedicated to producing artistically significant opera productions of the highest quality while making the art form approachable to broader audiences. As a resident performing arts organization at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Downtown Raleigh, NCO brings the world’s most powerful stories to life right in the city’s heart.
In addition to mainstage productions, NCO runs in-school performances and community engagement programs that introduce the beauty of opera to students across Wake County and beyond. It’s this dual commitment—to excellence on stage and outreach in the community—that makes North Carolina Opera so unique.
A Story Born from Collaboration
North Carolina Opera was formed in 2010 when The Opera Company of North Carolina merged with Capital Opera Raleigh, creating a single, unified company. From its earliest productions, NCO set out to showcase both classic repertoire and contemporary works. The company’s mission has always been clear: to strengthen and expand audiences for opera in the region while supporting regional artists.
Today’s Spotlight: A Season of Storytelling
NCO has built a reputation for bold programming, offering audiences both beloved classics and groundbreaking new works. Highlights of recent seasons include:
- The world stage premiere of Sanctuary Road (2022) by Paul Moravec and Mark Campbell, which played to sold-out audiences in Raleigh.
- Regional premieres of works by Wagner, Verdi, Britten, Tchaikovsky, and Bellini.
- Performances by world-renowned artists such as Michael Fabiano, Lawrence Brownlee, and Anthony Roth Costanzo.
Looking ahead, the 2025–2026 season promises unforgettable experiences with the Raleigh premiere of Massenet’s Cinderella in October, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly in January 2026, and Verdi’s Il Trovatore in April 2026—all at the Martin Marietta Center.
Behind the Curtain
Beyond the spotlight, North Carolina Opera thrives on collaboration and creativity. Their productions bring together local talent, international stars, and visionary directors, creating performances that feel both world-class and deeply tied to Raleigh’s cultural identity.
And while their artistry shines on stage, NCO also shines in the community. From educational programs that bring opera into schools to free public events that break down barriers, the company’s work ensures opera feels less like a niche art form and more like a shared cultural treasure.
Why Raleigh Loves NCO
Raleigh is a city that values both its history and its forward momentum—and North Carolina Opera reflects that same balance. By presenting both timeless works and modern premieres, NCO has become a hub for locals seeking meaningful cultural experiences. Attending an opera here is more than just a night out—it’s a way to connect with Raleigh’s thriving arts and culture scene, right alongside other favorite outings like dining downtown, exploring museums, or enjoying concerts in the city.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Reach of Opera
As the Triangle continues to grow, North Carolina Opera is determined to grow with it. Their vision includes expanding community outreach, fostering the next generation of opera audiences, and continuing to bring world-class performances to Raleigh that rival those in New York or London. By blending tradition with bold innovation, NCO is ensuring that opera will remain an essential part of Raleigh’s cultural future.
Closing Invitation
As a proud Best of Raleigh Gold Founding Partner, North Carolina Opera invites you to discover the magic of live performance in the heart of our city. From mainstage productions to educational outreach, NCO is redefining what opera means for today’s audiences.
Ready to experience North Carolina Opera? Here’s where to find them: