In Schools
Bringing the magic of music directly to students
Each year, Pensacola Opera’s Jan Miller Studio Artists visit elementary, middle, and high schools throughout five counties in Northwest Florida and Southwest Alabama. We are proud to present this free tour of educational opera performances through the generous support of our corporate and individual donors. See below for a detailed description of the programs we are offering during our current season.
Pensacola Opera Education
Bring a fully-staged opera into your classroom or assembly.
2024-25 production | Mato: The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish (world premiere)
Pensacola Opera proudly presents a world premiere children’s opera, commissioned specifically for our education tour! Mato is a young bear who has finally reached the age where he is to leave the den and go out on his own. However, once he eagerly departs his mother, he quickly realizes that he doesn’t remember one of the most essential skills for any bear—he can’t fish! Mato learns that it’s okay to ask for help, and that everyone has their own special talents.
Music by Matthew Fossa
Libretto & Story by Joshua Borths
Length: 40 minutes
Grades: K through 4th grade
Cost: No charge for public schools ($250 suggested donation for private schools and other groups)
Invite our Studio Artists into your classroom for an interactive workshop.
These young, professional singers will share their talent as they perform well-known opera arias and songs, introduce your students to opera terminology, and discuss their careers. We also invite students to ask their own questions! This program can be customized to fit within your class schedules and curriculum requirements.
Length: 40 minutes
Cost: No charge for public schools ($250 suggested donation for private schools and other groups)
Experience the magic of live theatre at its best.
School groups may attend our final dress rehearsals in the historic Saenger Theatre. Tickets are $5 per student and $8 per chaperone (one chaperone is required for every ten students).
2025 Dress Rehearsal Dates
The Marriage of Figaro (Mozart/Da Ponte) | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Pagliacci (Leoncavallo) | Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM
See yourself on stage.
OVERTURE is Pensacola Opera’s immersive summer experience for students ages 8-13. This week-long day camp will teach children about the magic and excitement of live theatre by placing them right at the center of the action. Pensacola Opera’s experienced music staff—alongside special guest teachers—will lead children through this hands-on, unforgettable week.