This spring, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis kicks off its landmark 50th anniversary season, a golden milestone celebrating five decades of storytelling, innovation, and community.
Founded in 1976, OTSL has evolved into one of the most respected regional opera companies—renowned for its English-language productions, accessible atmosphere, and groundbreaking commitment to new works and emerging talent.
As the company marks this milestone, it presents a 2025 season filled with both beloved classics and fresh perspectives, setting the stage for another 50 years of artistic excellence.
Among this year’s line up are two very special productions: “Die Fledermaus” and “Don Pasquale.” The company will also welcome Shawna Lucey as the stage director for “Die Fledermaus.”
“I was very excited when Opera Theatre of Saint Louis asked me to do this new production of ‘Die Fledermaus’ because I am a passionate director of comedies,” Lucey says. “It’s my favorite thing to do.”
Strauss’ “Die Fledermaus”: A slapstick comedy for the ages
The 2025 season opens with the bubbly charm of Johann Strauss II’s “Die Fledermaus” (May 24–June 28), a perfect fit for a company in celebration mode. Although the opera is traditionally set in turn-of-the-century Vienna, OTSL’s production has been updated to New York City in 1959. Often described as the ultimate operetta, “Die Fledermaus” blends beautiful waltzes, comedic twists, and glittering high society. But bringing such a classic to life takes more than just the usual trappings of a grand production. When the mysterious and eccentric Prince Orlofsky throws a lavish costume party, the stage is set for an unforgettable night. Dr. Falke invites his friend Eisenstein for a bit of gentlemanly mischief—but neither suspects that Rosalinde, Eisenstein’s cunning wife, and their quick-witted maid, Adele, have schemes of their own. What begins as a playful ruse soon unravels into a riotous tangle of mistaken identities and hilarious twists.
In rehearsal rooms buzzing with singers warming up and actors running lines, Lucey is shaping a production that mixes old-school glamour with a wink of modern social satire. A show like “Die Fledermaus” isn’t just about hitting the high notes—it’s a team effort from everyone, onstage and behind the scenes. Comedy is all about timing, and Lucey is working closely with the cast and crew to make sure every prank lands and every waltz dazzles.
“The thing that I love most of all about opera is how many people it takes with such a wild array of talent and specialty. You think about the orchestra, the people making the wigs, somebody doing the spotlights, the lighting designer or the stage managers, or people moving the scenery,” says Lucey. “It takes so many different kinds of people to put it on the stage. And then you think about the audience and all of the different people in the audience. And it’s a miracle that we all come together to experience the power of live music.”
OTSL is pulling out all the stops to mark this anniversary in style. The production will nod to the company’s anniversary in several ways and to St. Louis in general, so keep an eye out for those details.
A full-circle moment: “Don Pasquale” returns
Another highlight of the anniversary season is Donizetti’s comic gem “Don Pasquale” (June 8–27). But this production comes with a touching backstory: Stage director Christopher Alden began his OTSL journey in 1976, at age 25, directing “Don Pasquale,” which was then the company’s first-ever production. Now, exactly half a century later, he returns to this same work—bringing a veteran’s insight and a director’s nostalgia to the staging.
“The fates could not have chosen a more fitting way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Opera Theatre of Saint Louis than by bringing back ‘Don Pasquale,’ the first piece ever performed by this illustrious company,” Alden writes on the theater’s blog.
For new guests, it will be a charming, fun introduction to Opera Theatre of Saint Louis. For longtime patrons, it will be a wonderful chance to witness the growth of both the artist and the institution.
A season rich with discovery
While the anniversary season honors the past, OTSL remains firmly future-facing. That’s evident in its adventurous lineup of new and rarely performed works.
- “Our Songs” (May 10): This free community concert will celebrate diverse voices and local stories. It’s one of several initiatives aimed at making opera accessible and inclusive, core values of the company’s mission.
- “Die Fledermaus” (May 24-June 28): Prince Orlofsky is hosting the most extravagant costume party in town—and everyone’s vying for a spot on the guest list. Dr. Falke convinces his friend Eisenstein to join him for a carefree night of fun, unaware that Eisenstein’s wife, Rosalinde, and their maid, Adele, have cooked up some mischief of their own.
- “This House” (May 31-June 29): This world premiere is a powerful new opera by composer Ricky Ian Gordon and co-librettists Lynn Nottage and Ruby Aiyo Gerber. “This House” delves into themes of memory, legacy, and healing. It’s anchored by a lyrical score and emotionally resonant storytelling.
- “Don Pasquale” (June 8–27): Don Pasquale, a lifelong bachelor, is furious when his heir Ernesto falls for a penniless widow. To teach him a lesson, Pasquale hatches a plan to cut Ernesto off and find a bride of his own. But Ernesto’s clever sweetheart, Norina, teams up with the sly Dr. Malatesta to turn the tables. Disguised as the ideal wife, Norina enters into a sham marriage with Pasquale—and quickly throws his orderly life into hilarious chaos.
- “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (June 14–28): Benjamin Britten’s version is a magical reimagining of Shakespeare’s tale of fairies, lovers, and mischief. OTSL’s intimate setting is ideal for this delicate and dreamy work, with lush visuals and an evocative soundscape.
- “Center Stage” (June 24): This is a showcase of rising talent from OTSL’s prestigious Gerdine Young Artist Program. It’s a glimpse into the voices that will shape opera’s next 50 years.
With a season that nods to its storied past and embraces bold new directions, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis invites audiences to be part of a momentous celebration. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to opera, there’s never been a better time to experience the magic of music, theater, and community coming together.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio in partnership with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis. To purchase tickets or learn more about the season, visit experienceopera.org.
