Cleveland Orchestra Unveils Star-Studded 2026 Opera Festival Lineup

The Cleveland Orchestra has announced the lineup for its fourth annual Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Opera & Humanities Festival, scheduled to take place from May 15 to May 24, 2026. The festival will explore the theme of “Courage,” with renowned trumpeter and composer Terrence Blanchard serving as the Festival Curator.

One of the standout events will be the opening performance titled “The World(s) of Terence Blanchard.” This genre-defying program will feature a mix of opera, jazz, and film music, showcasing talents such as baritone Will Liverman, the E-Collective, and the Turtle Island Quartet. The performance will also include visual projections designed by Andrew F. Scott, offering a rich multimedia experience. This opening event is set for May 15, 2026.

The festival will also highlight one of Beethoven’s most celebrated works, “Fidelio.” The Cleveland Orchestra will present three concert performances led by conductor Franz Welser-Möst. The cast features acclaimed artists including Malin Byström as Leonore, David Butt Philip as Florestan, and Tomasz Konieczny as Don Pizarro. Joining them will be Dashon Burton as Don Fernando and the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus. These performances will take place from May 16 to May 24, 2026.

In addition, the festival will present “United in Song! A Community Choral Celebration,” which will gather choirs from across Greater Cleveland for a collaborative performance. This event is scheduled for May 16, 2026, and aims to foster community engagement through the power of music.

The Mandel Opera & Humanities Festival continues to expand its reach and impact, providing a platform for collaboration and celebration of diverse musical expressions. The combination of established artists and innovative programming promises to deliver a captivating experience for audiences.

As anticipation builds for the festival, the Cleveland Orchestra remains committed to highlighting the importance of the arts in fostering dialogue and understanding. The theme of “Courage” is particularly significant, offering a lens through which the performances can resonate with contemporary issues and personal experiences.

For more information on the festival schedule and ticket availability, visit the Cleveland Orchestra’s official website.