The 2026-27 UNLV Opera season explores works spotlighting Vassar College. Although Vassar has been co-ed since 1969, this trilogy highlights its proud legacy as a women's college by spotlighting women who are changing history, fighting for our planet, and breaking scientific ground.
Nov. 12-13 2026, in Dr. Arturo Rando-Grillot Recital Hall UNLV Opera presents a double bill of chamber operas. Jackie at Vassar (music by Allen Shearer; libretto by Vassar alumna Claudia Stevens) follows future First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier during her sophomore year at Vassar, before she became a Kennedy. Cinderemma and the Green Sneaker (music by Jules Massenet, Gioachino Rossini, and Pauline Viardot; dialogue by Vassar alumna Linda Lister) is an eco-friendly pastiche opera reimagining a modern-day Cinderella named Emma who wants to major in environmental studies at Vassar. This retelling of the familiar fairy tale will also serve as an outreach opera to be performed at local elementary schools.
March 12-13, 2027, in the Judy Bayley Theatre UNLV Opera presents the award-winning new opera Computing Venus (music by Timothy Takach; libretto by Caitlin Vincent). Winner of the 2024 Domenic J. Pellicciotti Opera Composition Prize, Computing Venus provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of astronomer Maria Mitchell (1818-1889), the first female professor of astronomy at Vassar College and a groundbreaking historical figure who paved the way for women in STEM in America.
Besides celebrating Vassar College, the season also spotlights living female librettists. In the words of Maria Mitchell: “Born a woman! … what higher destiny could you have? No matter where you are nor what you are, you are a power. Your influence is incalculable.” Save the dates for UNLV Opera’s exciting 2026-27 season featuring Maria Mitchell, Cinderella, and Jackie Kennedy.
About the UNLV College of Fine Arts
The College of Fine Arts educates, empowers, and engages creative people to become visionary change-makers in the arts through acts of imagination. At UNLV we believe the arts are an essential good for society. We make education relevant and accessible through our programs and outreach. We create new knowledge in the arts. We celebrate independent thought and the power of bringing people together to foster creativity.
