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Seattle, Washington / Theaters and music

Seattle Opera

A premier American opera company established in 1963, presenting world-class performances of European classics and new works at the stunning Marion Oliver McCaw Hall.

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Seattle Opera
www.seattleopera.org, website_hero_img_www.seattleopera.org

What is the Seattle Opera known for?

Seattle Opera is one of the leading opera companies in the United States, presenting theatrically compelling works by some of the world's greatest composers, including European classics and new works.

Where does the Seattle Opera perform?

Since August 2003, the company has performed at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall at Seattle Center.

What are the hours for visitor services?

Visitor and Audience Services are available Monday through Friday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

When is the opera season?

The season typically runs from August through late May and usually consists of five or six operas, with eight to ten performances for each.

Is it good for kids?

Children and teens 18 and under are welcome but must have their own ticket and seat; babes in arms are not permitted. Additionally, $25 youth tickets are available in select zones for some performances, provided at least one standard full-price ticket is purchased.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Seattle Opera is a leading American opera company that has been enriching the Pacific Northwest since its founding in 1963. The company is dedicated to serving the region with high-caliber performances, blending the timeless classics of the European repertoire with innovative new works by some of the world's greatest composers. Since August 2003, the company has called Marion Oliver McCaw Hall their home. This impressive venue, built on the site of the old Seattle Opera House at Seattle Center, boasts a capacity of 2,967 seats, allowing it to host large-scale productions. The season typically runs from August through late May, featuring five or six operas with eight to ten performances each. Beyond the stage, Seattle Opera emphasizes community engagement through innovative educational programs and broadcast activities. These efforts reach over 100,000 people annually, while more than 50,000 people attend live performances each year. The organization maintains administrative offices at 363 Mercer Street, with visitor-facing services at 321 Mercer Street. Upcoming productions include a diverse range of works such as Salome, La bohème, and El último sueño de Frida y Diego. These performances highlight the company's commitment to theatricality and artistic excellence in the heart of Seattle's cultural hub.

Visitor tips

  • Check the official website seattleopera.org for the current season's schedule and ticket availability.
  • If you are visiting with young people, look for $25 youth tickets in select zones, though these require the purchase of at least one full-price ticket.
  • Plan your visit during the season (August through May) to see a live performance.
  • For ticket inquiries, contact Audience Services Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Nearby context

Located within the vibrant Seattle Center, the Seattle Opera at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall is surrounded by other major cultural institutions and museums, making it a perfect anchor for a cultural walking tour.

Sources

Evidence and links

  • Carmen - Seattle Opera

    **$25 YOUTH TICKETS IN SELECT ZONES**

    secure.seattleopera.org
  • McCaw Hall

    Seattle Opera. Search. Home · Events & Tickets · Events Calendar · Seattle Opera

    mccawhall.com
  • Seattle Opera

    Address 321 Mercer Street, Seattle, WA 98109

    visitseattle.org
  • Seattle Opera Events - McCaw Hall

    Established in 1963, Seattle Opera is committed to serving the people of the Pacific Northwest with performances of the highest caliber

    mccawhall.com
  • Seattle Opera Home Page

    December 11, 12, & 13 at The Opera Center

    seattleopera.org
  • Live Sessions: Seattle Opera - NPR

    Founded in 1963, Seattle Opera is one of the leading opera companies in the United States.

    livesessions.npr.org