“The Opera Guild works so, so hard all year long to be sure students’ dreams can come true.”

Dr. Paul Houghtaling

At the UA Opera Guild’s 9th annual Opera Gala on February 3, attendees can expect high-energy entertainment and enticing auction items, with proceeds going directly to benefit students. Founded in 2013, the Opera Guild provides support to the UA Opera Theatre program in many ways, including hosting the Gala, which generates nearly 80% of the program’s budget. The Guild is hoping to build off of last year’s record-breaking fundraising efforts with this year’s Gala, “Bravo 2023! Stand Up for Opera!”

With support from the Guild and the entire UA community, the opera theatre program thrives and students achieve great things. Last year, The University of Alabama won first place in Division II at the National Opera Association’s Opera Production Competition. Zoe Rose Pallas, a recent alum, was a finalist in the Tier II Division of the 2022 James Toland Vocal Arts Competition, earning a Bonnie Bell Encouragement Award. Every year, many other opera theatre students and alumni receive leading roles and national recognition.

With only a handful of tickets left, anyone interested in attending the Opera Gala should contact Dr. Paul Houghtaling directly to reserve seats. Opera fans are also encouraged to see any of the opera theatre program’s upcoming productions this semester, including Puccini’s comic masterpiece Gianni Schicchi and the annual One Night Only.