The Atlanta Opera Podcast

Welcome to BlinkOpera, the Atlanta Opera’s bite-sized journey into the heart of great storytelling. In this episode, baritone Anthony Clark Evans guides us through the sweeping emotion and dramatic power of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata—one of the most beloved works in the operatic canon. Evans walks us into the glittering world of Parisian high society, where the radiant courtesan Violetta Valéry discovers a love that promises renewal yet demands impossible sacrifice. With warmth and insight, he unpacks the opera’s unforgettable moments: the effervescent brilliance of “Sempre libera,” the tenderness of Violetta and Alfredo’s countryside idyll, and the heartbreaking intensity of the final act. Whether you’re discovering La Traviata for the first time or returning to a longtime favorite, this quick dive illuminates why Verdi’s masterpiece continues to move audiences around the world. Let’s begin.

Welcome to 5 Things to Know, the Atlanta Opera’s quick, insightful guide to the essential elements behind each production. In this episode, we focus on Giuseppe Verdi’s La traviata, ahead of performances on November 8, 11, 14, and 16, 2025, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Your guide today is conductor Evan Rogister, who distills the five most important aspects of this beloved masterpiece—what to listen for, what to watch for, and why this opera continues to captivate audiences around the world. Rogister explores the emotional depth of Violetta’s journey, the dramatic power of Verdi’s score, the social tensions driving the plot, and the moments of musical brilliance that define the work. Whether you’re preparing for your first visit or brushing up before returning to a favorite, this episode offers a clear, engaging roadmap to enrich your experience of La traviata. Let’s get started.

Five Things is your quick guide to the world of opera, theater, and the stories that bring them to life. Each episode highlights five key insights—whether it’s what makes a classic like Fiddler on the Roof timeless, or the behind-the-scenes details that shape a new production. In this episode, special guest Gregory Luis Boyle shares five essential things to know about Fiddler on the Roof, offering fresh perspectives on why Tevye’s tale of tradition, family, and change still resonates today. Smart, engaging, and approachable, Five Things is designed for both newcomers and longtime fans who want to see familiar works in a new light. Subscribe and discover how five simple takeaways can open the door to a deeper appreciation of the arts.

Step into the world of Fiddler on the Roof like never before. In this special podcast from The Atlanta Opera and Alliance Theatre, acclaimed actor Itzik Cohen (Fauda, The Women’s Balcony) takes on the role of Tevye—not just to sing and speak on stage, but to personally tell you his story. Shared entirely in the first person as Tevye, this intimate retelling brings you inside the humor, hardship, and hope of a man trying to hold onto tradition while the world around him changes. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the tale for the first time, this podcast offers a fresh, moving way to experience one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Subscribe now and walk a mile in Tevye’s boots.

In this episode, assistant director Emma Grimsley shares five essential things to know about Handel’s Semele before you head to the theater. From Handel’s legendary music and the mythological roots of the story, to the surprising history of oratorios and the da capo arias that dazzle in performance, you’ll get a quick, engaging look at what makes this baroque masterpiece so unforgettable. Whether you're new to opera or a seasoned fan, this behind-the-scenes glimpse will enrich your experience of Semele—a tale of passion, power, and divine drama.

In this episode, tenor Josh Lovell—making his Atlanta Opera debut as Jupiter—guides listeners through the sweeping drama of Handel’s Semele. This Baroque masterpiece follows the story of a mortal woman caught between love and ambition, as her secret affair with the king of the gods leads to divine deception, fiery consequences, and the birth of a new god. Along the way, Josh shares his personal connection to Handel’s music and why Jupiter is a role he’s excited to bring to life.  Whether you’re new to opera or a longtime fan, this myth-meets-music journey is one you won’t want to miss.

Explore the epic layers of Wagner’s Siegfried with 5 Things to Know: Siegfried. From reforged swords to forest whispers, join conductor Roberto Kalb as he unpacks five fascinating insights into the music, myth, and meaning behind this operatic masterpiece.

Join contralto Lindsay Ammann — making her Atlanta Opera debut as Erda — as she hosts this episode of BlinkOpera exploring Wagner’s Siegfried. Lindsay shares insights into the mythic world of the Ring Cycle and reflects on embodying the ancient, timeless voice of Erda.  Learn how Wagner’s music brings these legendary characters to life, and get a personal glimpse into one of opera’s most powerful roles.

What happens when Verdi’s thrilling music collides with Shakespeare’s most haunting thriller? In this episode, assistant director Elio Bucky shares five key insights into Macbeth—from its Shakespearean roots to Verdi’s revisions, cutting-edge stagecraft, and the eerie superstitions surrounding the tale. Don’t miss this deep dive into power, fate, and one of opera’s most chilling masterpieces!

Dive into the darkness with BlinkOpera: Macbeth.  Soprano Sara Gartland—our electrifying Lady Macbeth—takes you inside Shakespeare’s legendary tale of ambition and madness. From the witches’ fateful prophecies to the bloody consequences of the pursuit of power, discover how Verdi’s haunting score brings this dark drama to life.

Listen to the Associate Director, Ian Silverman, explore 5 Things You Need to Know about The Magic Flute.

Dive into the enchanted world of Mozart's The Magic Flute!  Join Diana Newman, Alexandra Razskazoff, and Meridian Prall—the three ladies—as we discover how this timeless tale explores themes of love, courage, and enlightenment, all set to Mozart’s magical score. 

In this episode, the Atlanta Opera dives into five key insights about their production of Rent—Jonathan Larson’s revolutionary rock opera that transformed Broadway with its raw portrayal of love, friendship, and resilience in the face of HIV/AIDS. This episode is a must-listen for fans of the musical and anyone interested in how Rent maintains its relevance in contemporary culture.

In this episode of BlinkOpera, we dive into our modern reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, set during the COVID-19 pandemic. This contemporary adaptation follows a group of struggling artists as they navigate love, heartbreak, and survival in a world upended by the virus. With lockdowns, isolation, and the threat of illness looming over their lives, the timeless themes of La Bohème take on new urgency and relevance. Join us as we explore how this classic opera resonates in today’s world of uncertainty, hope, and resilience. 

In this episode of the Atlanta Opera Podcast, we dive into The Bohème Project, an innovative take on two iconic works: Puccini’s classic opera La Bohème and Jonathan Larson’s groundbreaking musical Rent.  Set against the stunning industrial backdrop of Pullman Yards, this project brings together the timeless themes of love, artistry, and struggle, told through the unique lenses of both productions. Join us as we explore the top 5 things you need to know about this groundbreaking project, from the creative vision of co-directors Tomer Zvulun and Vita Tzykun, to the ways these two beloved stories intersect and complement one another. 

Join us for as we condense Richard Wagner's epic masterpiece in this episode of The Atlanta Opera Podcast. In just a blink of an eye, we'll guide you through the key moments, characters, and themes of Die Walküre, offering a fresh perspective on this monumental work. Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or new to the genre, The Atlanta Opera Podcast provides an accessible and engaging way to explore the world of opera. So, tune in and get ready to experience the power and drama of Die Walküre like never before.

This is your backstage pass to all things opera! In this episode, we're diving deep into Richard Wagner's epic masterpiece, Die Walküre. Join us as we explore five essential things you need to know about this timeless opera before experiencing it live at The Atlanta Opera. From the captivating storyline to the iconic characters and breathtaking music, we'll guide you through the rich tapestry of Wagner's mythical world. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the art form, this episode is your ultimate guide to understanding and appreciating Die Walküre. So grab your headphones, sit back, and welcome to The Atlanta Opera Podcast!

BlinkOpera is your go-to source for quick insights into your favorite opera!  Join host Susanne Burgess, who sings the role of Helena, as we dive into the whimsical world of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and explore the plot of  Benjamin Britten's adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy — filled with fairies, lovers, and mischief!

Welcome to The Atlanta Opera Podcast! In this episode, join host Bruno Baker, Stage Director for our production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," as he shares five things you need to know about the show.  From behind-the-scenes insights to the creative process behind the production design, Bruno dives deep into what makes this interpretation of Shakespeare's classic comedy truly special.  Whether you're a seasoned opera-goer or a newcomer to the world of theater, this episode is your guide to unlocking the magic of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at The Atlanta Opera. Tune in and get ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the whimsical world of fairies and lovers!

Join baritone Zachary Nelson, who brings the character of Marcello to life on stage, as he hosts this episode of The Atlanta Opera Podcast, "BlinkOpera: La Bohème." In this episode, Nelson provides an insightful look into the story and characters that make this Puccini opera a true masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or a newcomer, The Atlanta Opera Podcast offers a fresh perspective on the enchanting and timeless tale of La bohème, making it a must-listen for opera enthusiasts and curious minds alike.