Richard Harrell

This July, National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene will bring together more than 140 actors, singers and musicians from across globe for a sensational, one-time event - A Yiddish Renaissance: A Virtual Concert Celebration - filled with music and appearances by some of the most renowned Yiddish performers.

Google the "Pearl Fishers Duet" and you'll find almost every famous opera singer has sung the exquisitely beautiful song. It's the type of song that makes it to Hollywood, but that you recognize when you hear it. But many don't recognize the story behind it, one that plays out in a three-act opera titled "The Pearl Fishers" and composed by the creator of the immortalized opera Carmen. One could watch the first act of the opera alone and leave satisfied, having heard the best the opera has to offer. Georges Bizet's gorgeous score as a whole, however, has plenty to recommend it, and a timeless romance filled with the overhanging threat of death makes watching it unfold a bittersweet experience.

Opera San Jose General Director Irene Dalis has announced repertoire for the company's 29th season to begin today, Saturday, September 8 with Georges Bizet's exotic romance The Pearl Fishers, one of four productions never before staged at the California Theatre. Anthony Quartuccio conducts, with stage direction by Richard Harrell, director of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music opera program.

Opera San José General Director Irene Dalis has announced the results of the Sixth Annual Irene Dalis Vocal Competition held May 19, 2012 at the California Theatrein downtown San José.

Opera San José will celebrate classical stars in classical voice at the Sixth-Annual Irene Dalis Vocal Competition on May 19 at 3 pm at the California Theatre in downtown San José.

Opera San Jose General Director Irene Dalis has announced repertoire for the company's 29th season to begin Saturday, September 8 with Georges Bizet's exotic romance The Pearl Fishers, one of four productions never before staged at the California Theatre.