Events

On September 20, 1870 Italy became reunified for the first time since the fall of the Roman Empire. It was cause for celebration! In Italy, where almost every city or town has its via XX settembre, this happy historic occasion is celebrated every year. And here in Lynchburg, the Point of Honor portion of Cabell Street becomes “September 20th Street” for this one day. 

Join four unlikely heroes as they discover that friendship, teamwork, and a little courage can take you farther than you ever imagined. Opera on the James’s Tyler Young Artists bring the classic tale of The Bremen Town Musicians to life in a lively production designed especially for families. Packed with humor, memorable music, and engagement with the children, this performance introduces young audiences to the joy of live opera in a fun and welcoming way. (Suitable for grades pre-K-5).

More information here: https://www.operaonthejames.org/fall-free-family-fun-day-2026

The season’s first Dante Society & Opera on the James collaboration — an evening with Artistic Director Peter Leonard and Mozart’s beloved The Magic Flute.

The Dante Society will offer light refreshments, and there is no charge for the event. Members will have an opportunity to renew their dues, and guests will have an opportunity to join.

To reserve your seats, Kindly reply by Oct 9th

Gail Morrison · 434.670.5053 (cell/text)

gailjohnsonmorrison@gmail.com

A prince on a quest. A magical flute with extraordinary powers. A lovable bird catcher searching for love. A fearsome Queen of the Night. Mozart’s The Magic Flute is one of opera’s greatest adventures.

Filled with dazzling costumes, spectacular music, memorable comedy, and timeless themes of courage, wisdom, and love, this enchanting masterpiece has captivated audiences for generations. Perfect for families, first-time opera-goers, and devoted opera fans alike, The Magic Flute is a magical theatrical experience you’ll never forget.

More info here: https://www.operaonthejames.org/magic-flute

Join the Board of Directors of Opera on the James for an exclusive pre-show reception inspired by The Magic Flute. Designed for new patrons and the delightfully inquisitive, this relaxed early evening gathering offers a welcoming introduction to the world of opera—no experience required.

Enjoy drinks, light fare, and a taste of the music and atmosphere that make The Magic Flute one of the most beloved operas ever written. Meet fellow guests, connect with members of our community, and discover what makes live opera so immediate, accessible, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re joining us for the first time or bringing someone along, this is the perfect place to begin the journey. RSVP by November 5.

More at https://www.operaonthejames.org/operacurious

A prince on a quest. A magical flute with extraordinary powers. A lovable bird catcher searching for love. A fearsome Queen of the Night. Mozart’s The Magic Flute is one of opera’s greatest adventures.

Filled with dazzling costumes, spectacular music, memorable comedy, and timeless themes of courage, wisdom, and love, this enchanting masterpiece has captivated audiences for generations. Perfect for families, first-time opera-goers, and devoted opera fans alike, The Magic Flute is a magical theatrical experience you’ll never forget.

More info here: https://www.operaonthejames.org/magic-flute

MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE!

Start the Holiday Season with Handel’s beloved Messiah. Maestro Peter Leonard will lead a full orchestra and brilliant soloists, featuring the choir and soloists from Christian Church. Everyone will have the chance to sing along in the Hallelujah Chorus, plus other inspiring choral pieces. (Singing along is optional, of course!)

This monumental oratorio was composed in just 24 days, an astounding feat.

Handel survived with little to eat and hardly slept. He is said to have later remarked: “Whether I was in my body or out of my body as I wrote it, I know not. Only God knows.”

We will perform the “Christmas section,” the first part of this beloved work, plus the most famous choral song ever written, the Hallelujah Chorus. 

Join us and celebrate in a very special location, a true architectural gem:

First Christian Church

3109 Rivermont Avenue

Sunday November 29, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Hosted by Randolph President Sue Ott Rowlands

Randolph House

3115 Rivermont Ave

Please bring a favorite sweet or savory dish to share Wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.

Reservations by Dec. 1st to Gail Morrison gailjohnsonmorrison@gmail.com or 434.607.5053

Speed Dating Tonight

Feb 13th: 7:30PM

Feb 14th: 3PM

Love is in the air…for exactly six minutes. What could possibly go wrong?

Opera on the James and Endstation Theatre Company join forces for Michael Ching’s Speed Dating Tonight!, a hilarious contemporary comedy that follows a colorful cast of hopeful romantics navigating the unpredictable world of speed dating. As first impressions are made, sparks fly, misunderstandings multiply, and unexpected connections emerge, all set to a witty, fast-paced score.

Whether you’re an opera lover, a musical theatre fan, or simply looking for a fun night out, Speed Dating Tonight! proves that finding love is never simple, but it’s always entertaining. Clever, relatable, and laugh-out-loud funny, this delightful collaboration is the perfect introduction to modern opera.

More info here: https://www.operaonthejames.org/speed-dating-tonight

James R. Bower, Jr. and Dabney Treacy, Co-Chairs

Every unforgettable story begins with a dream.

Join Opera on the James for Once Upon a Dream, an enchanting event where music, imagination, and community come together in support of Opera on the James. Enjoy this elegant and fun celebration featuring cocktail reception, exceptional dining and captivating performances by Opera on the James artists and surprise guests!

More here: https://www.operaonthejames.org/enchanted-garden-gala