The Santa Fe Opera is back and off to a busy season after skipping last summer when the entire planet shut down during the pandemic. Located seven miles north of the capitol city, the Santa Fe Opera was founded in 1956 by John Crosby. Not only was he the founder of the opera, he retained the position as director until the year 2000. When Crosby died in 2002 he had the unique distinction, because of his 44 year tenure, as being the longest running general director of an opera company in the United States.
Crosby also conducted many of the operas at Santa Fe’s breathtaking outdoor venue. A production of Puccini’s Madame Butterfly was the inaugural opera that took place on July 3, 1957. Since that time, Santa Fe’s opera house has become world renown. In the last 64 years the Santa Fe Opera has produced both American and international premieres. The opera house has also brought together some of the world’s leading performers, musicians and conductors. Igor Stravinsky performed his works for the first five years at the Santa Fe Opera.
Backdrop of Beauty
For both Santa Feans and visitors alike the beautiful landscape that surrounds the Santa Fe Opera is the main attraction. The music, performances and the camaraderie that opera goers enjoy during the pre-performance tailgating parties add to the festive atmosphere. This summer SFO is offering jumbotron screens to view the opera from the parking lot. This new addition offers a novel way of introducing more people to opera. The Santa Fe Opera is the cultural crown jewel of the Southwest.