OUR MISSION
FREE WORLD CLASS OPERA
OPERA IN THE PARK Portland’s mission is to enrich the cultural life of the Portland community by providing professional opera performances of high artistic quality to the public free of charge. Audiences of all ages and backgrounds gather to enjoy this unique contribution to Portland’s cultural life. Presented in concert format with full orchestra and lively narration, these performances have introduced thousands of Portlanders to the world of opera and attracted a growing number of loyal fans.
OUR STORY
BELOVED SUMMER TRADITION
OPERA IN THE PARK Portland is a cherished community tradition, bringing world-class opera to audiences of all ages completely free of charge. Since its founding over two decades ago, its mission has been to make grand opera accessible to everyone. Each summer, the organization presents Opera performances with orchestra, chorus, and acclaimed soloists in Portland’s beautiful public parks.
Over the years, past productions have included classics like La Traviata, Carmen, and The Barber of Seville, providing a relaxed, family-friendly setting where audiences can picnic, mingle, and share in the arts. In addition to its summer performances, OPERA IN THE PARK Portland supports arts education, emerging artists, and community partnerships, thereby continuing its vision of making the beauty and power of opera accessible to all.
WHAT WE DO
BRINGING WORLD-CLASS TALENT TO ALL PORTLANDERS
Guest Artists
Every year, OPERA IN THE PARK Portland brings together acclaimed national, international, and regional opera artists to Portland for an unforgettable evening of world-class music under the open sky.
Orchestra
Featuring professional musicians, the OPERA IN THE PARK Orchestra forms the vibrant heart of Portland’s beloved free opera tradition, uniting community and culture through extraordinary music.
Chorus
The OPERA IN THE PARK Chorus features talented musicians and singers from Oregon and Southwest Washington who bring powerful harmonies and artistry to Portland’s free outdoor opera performances.
OUR TEAM
Ashley Clark
Executive Director
Nicholas Fox
Interim Artistic Director
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jocelyn Bates O’Brien, President
Margaret Wallis, Treasurer
Katerina Gleeson, Secretary
Tom Bard
Dr. Keith Clark
Anna Jablonski
Darlyn Jablonski
Lindsey Johnson
ADVISORY BOARD
Steve Bachelder
Ruth Dobson
Jasmine Johnson
Kris Kern
Scott Wyse
PAST PERFORMANCES
For more than 23 years, OPERA IN THE PARK Portland has brought free outdoor opera performances to audiences throughout Portland, Oregon. Each summer, our nonprofit organization presents world-class opera concerts featuring beloved classics from the world’s greatest composers. Dedicated to making opera accessible to all, we continue to enrich the Portland arts community and share the transformative power of live opera with people of every age and background.
2025 | Carmen
2024 | La Traviata
2024 | American Songbook at PLACE
2023 | Rigoletto
2022 | Aida
2020 | Opera from a Sistah’s Point of View
2019 | Viva Verdi
2018 | Tosca
2016 | Il Trovatore
2015 | Grand & Glorious
2014 | Norma
2013 | Otello
2012 | Die Fledermaus
2011 | Carmen
2010 | Il Trovatore
2009 | La Traviata
2008 | Lucia di Lammermoor
2007 | Rigoletto
2006 | The Barber of Seville
2005 | The Elixir of Love
2005 | The Telephone
2004 | La Boheme
2003 | The Barber of Seville
2003 | The Impresario
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are OPERA IN THE PARK Portland concerts really free?
Yes! All of our performances are completely free to attend. Our mission is to make grand opera accessible to everyone in the community, regardless of financial barriers.
Do I need tickets or reservations?
No tickets are required, just come and enjoy! Seating is first-come, first-served, so we encourage you to arrive early and bring blankets or low chairs for comfort.
Where do the performances take place?
Our concerts are held outdoors in Portland parks each summer. Locations may vary, so keep in touch for current details.
What should I bring to the park?
We recommend blankets, low lawn chairs (not highback ones), sun protection, and water. Many guests also enjoy bringing a picnic.
How long is a typical performance?
Most concerts run 2 hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Be sure to arrive early as we have a pre-program that begins 30 minutes before the opera begins.
Are children and families welcome?
Absolutely! Opera in the Park is a family-friendly event designed for audiences of all ages.
Are you a nonprofit organization?
Yes, Opera in the Park Portland is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. nonprofit that relies on private and public support. To contribute, please click here. Our EIN number is 55-0829090
How are you different from Portland Opera?
While Portland Opera produces ticketed indoor performances and public performances in a traveling truck called Opera a la Cart, Opera in the Park focuses on large-scale outdoor concerts that bring grand opera directly to the community. Both organizations share a love for opera, but our missions and formats are distinct.
How is Opera in the Park funded?
Our concerts are made possible through the generosity of donors, sponsors, foundations, and government support.
How can I stay up to date on events?
You can join our email newsletter, follow us on social media, or check our website’s Performance page for the latest updates.
What is the best way to support OPERA IN THE PARK Portland?
You can make a tax-deductible donation, become a sponsor, or volunteer at our concerts. Every contribution helps us keep opera free for the community.
What happens if it rains?
Performances are outdoors and weather-dependent. Any changes or cancellations will be announced on our website and social media channel