Get the Inside Scoop on San Diego Opera’s Season at Opera Uncorked

If you’ve ever wanted to understand what’s actually happening in an opera before you see it, Opera Uncorked is the move.

San Diego Opera’s Resident Conductor and Chorus Master Bruce Stasyna leads these casual pre-performance events that break down everything you need to know – the history, what to listen for, and some of the behind-the-scenes challenges and fun facts about putting on each production.

It’s way more approachable than it sounds, and you get wine and light bites when you arrive.

A Fun, Low-Key Way to Prep for the Opera

Opera Uncorked happens a few weeks before each performance in the season, giving you just enough time to absorb what you’ve learned before you’re sitting in the theater. Stasyna walks through the story, the music, and what makes each opera tick, so when you finally see it live, you’re not scrambling to figure out what’s going on.

It’s like having a knowledgeable friend explain the whole thing in a way that makes you excited to experience it rather than intimidated.

Two Upcoming Events in East Village

The series takes place at UCSD’s Park & Market space in East Village, which is a beautiful venue that feels more like a modern gathering space than a lecture hall. The next two events cover The Barber of Seville and Carmen. Both start at 6 PM, so you can swing by after work or make an evening of it in East Village.

Reception wine for The Barber of Seville event is sponsored by Fallbrook Winery, which is always a nice touch.

Perfect for Opera Newbies and Regulars

Whether you’re brand new to opera or you’ve been going for years, Opera Uncorked adds something to the experience. For first-timers, it takes away the guesswork and makes the whole thing feel more accessible.

For regulars, it’s a chance to go deeper into the production details and appreciate layers you might have missed otherwise. Either way, it’s an hour and a half well spent.

See you there!

Wine, light bites, and the inside story on two of the season’s best operas – this is how you prep for a night at the opera.

📆 The Barber of Seville: Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6 PM | Carmen: Wednesday, March 12, 2026 at 6 PM
🎟️ Tickets: The Barber of Seville | Carmen
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!