This year, Wolf Trap Opera promises an extraordinary lineup of events that bring together the most talented artists and timeless pieces. From John Holiday’s masterful performance at The Barns to the enthralling narratives in 'The Marriage of Figaro' and 'Carmen,' and culminating with the grand choral spectacle of 'Carmina Burana,' each event offers a unique experience. Join us as we delve into a season filled with artistic excellence, melodic richness, and stories that capture the essence of human emotions and societal themes.

A Season of Operatic Splendor: Exploring Wolf Trap Opera's 2025 Lineup

This summer, Wolf Trap Opera presents a series of exciting, diverse performances that promise to delight opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike. From the powerful vocals of countertenor John Holiday to the timeless intrigue of 'The Marriage of Figaro,' and the atmospheric 'Carmina Burana,' each event offers a unique musical experience. Join us at The Barns and Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts for unforgettable evenings of operatic storytelling, intimate recitals, and orchestral splendor.

Captivating Performances and Timeless Classics at Wolf Trap Opera

Wolf Trap Opera presents an exhilarating lineup that promises to captivate audiences with a mix of beloved operas and orchestral masterpieces. This season, opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike can experience the powerful vocals of John Holiday, the humor and chaos of The Marriage of Figaro, the intimacy of the Salon Series, and the dramatic narratives of Dialogues of the Carmelites and Carmen. Adding to the charm are orchestral performances like Carmina Burana and Gershwin's vibrant Piano Concerto in F. Join us at The Barns at Wolf Trap for an unforgettable musical journey.

A Season of Opera and Orchestral Splendors at Wolf Trap Opera

Wolf Trap Opera is set to captivate audiences with an exciting lineup of events featuring world-renowned artists and iconic works. From the soaring notes of countertenor John Holiday to the comedic brilliance of Mozart's 'The Marriage of Figaro,' to the enthralling narratives of 'Carmen,' the season offers a diverse range of musical experiences. Not to be missed are the intimate Salon Series, the vibrant interpretations of Gershwin by Jean-Yves Thibaudet, and the powerful 'Carmina Burana.' This series promises to transport audiences through a musical journey unlike any other.

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Opera and Orchestral Masterpieces at Wolf Trap

This summer, Wolf Trap Opera invites audiences to experience an array of captivating performances that merge opera's dramatic flair with orchestral brilliance. From the comedic chaos of 'The Marriage of Figaro' to the evocative tales of 'Dialogues of the Carmelites', and the vibrant orchestral notes of Gershwin and Rimsky-Korsakov, this season promises a rich tapestry of musical excellence. Join us to witness the artistry of world-renowned performers and conductors as they bring these timeless works to life in a series of unforgettable events.

A Season of Opera and Orchestral Mastery at Wolf Trap Opera

Step into the sultry streets of Seville, where desire and danger intertwine in Bizet’s timeless masterpiece. At its heart is the fiery Carmen, whose seductive charm ensnares the heart of a young soldier, only to lead them both toward an inevitable clash of honor, love, and tragedy. With its electrifying drama and iconic score, featuring unforgettable melodies like the “Habanera” and the “Toreador Song,” Carmen is a celebration of freedom, passion, and fate. A must-see for seasoned opera lovers and first-time attendees.

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Carmen

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

“O Fortuna!” Carmina Burana’s towering first movement rolls in like thunder, announcing a celebration of spring, the delightful debauchery of nights at a tavern, and the joys and sorrows of love. Although the words were written by medieval monks, this outrageous cantata is an unstoppable force brimming with bawdy, irreverent satire on the ever-changing fate of man. The National Symphony Orchestra, two choruses, and stars of the Wolf Trap Opera come together for Carl Orff’s epic choral masterwork. The evening ends with selections of the best loved melodies from the famous opera, Carmen. Come hear Wolf Trap Opera perform the entire show on August 15th.

Carmina Burana

Set amid the turmoil of the French Revolution, Dialogues of the Carmelites tells the haunting story of Blanche de la Force, a young woman torn by fear and faith. Seeking refuge in a Carmelite convent, she finds unexpected courage through the unwavering devotion of her fellow nuns. In a powerful act of faith and solidarity, the nuns face martyrdom together, singing to their final breaths. Poulenc’s emotionally charged opera is a profound testament to conviction, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Dialogues of the Carmelites

The Barns At Wolf Trap

Superstar pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet brings vibrant color to George Gershwin’s jazzy Piano Concerto in F—a bluesy masterwork filled with Charleston rhythms. Closing the program is Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, an exotic journey of love, peril, and intrigue inspired by the famous folktale about a clever young queen who spins 1,001 fantastical stories to outwit a murderous sultan.

Jean-Yves Thibaudet plays Gershwin

The intimate essence of the recital is celebrated during these limited-capacity, artist-curated evenings. Come early for dinner and stay for a bespoke musical journey crafted by the performers. Each not-to-be-missed salon will showcase wildly different programs and artists. Don't miss the opportunity to hear these singers in unparalleled closeness.

Salon Series

Get ready for an unforgettable, Picasso-esque look at Mozart’s masterpiece. Quick-witted Figaro hatches a plan to thwart the Count’s scheme to seduce his bride-to-be, Susanna. A comical riot of mistaken identities, disguises, and delightful chaos ensues. Secrets are revealed, but love triumphs with Mozart’s dazzling score and a fast-paced, brilliant exploration of class, love, and loyalty. Whether you are a seasoned opera lover or a newcomer, The Marriage of Figaro promises unending artistry, humor, and exhilaration through every note.

The Marriage of Figaro

Wolf Trap Opera alumnus John Holiday (’14) has established himself as “one of the finest countertenors of his generation” (Los Angeles Times). Holiday enjoys an international career singing with opera companies such as the Metropolitan Opera, Bayerische Staatsoper (Munich), and Lyric Opera of Chicago, among others. Now, he returns to The Barns to sing works by Price, Bonds, Robert L. Morris, Gershwin, and more.

John Holiday, countertenor

Considered one of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s romantic depiction of Parisian bohemians captivates audiences. Soaring arias and glorious melodies collide with harsh realities. Wolf Trap Opera’s bright cast will embody the relatable and endearing characters in this heart-wrenching tale, leaving no one unmoved.

La bohème

Così fan tutte is Mozart’s most polarizing opera. Often considered the perfect ensemble opera, Così features ravishing melodies and glorious arias, duets, and sextets. The emotionally complex and quick-fire comedy offers an examination of sexual attitudes and the battle between love, reason, and human fallibility.

Wolf Trap Opera

Aug 15, 2025

Carmen

Jul 25, 2025

Carmina Burana

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