The Glimmerglass Experience
The Glimmerglass Festival provides the perfect summer getaway, surrounded by rolling hills, beautiful parks and crystal-clear lakes. The unspoiled beauty of Central New York’s rural landscape provides what The Sunday Times of London has called “the most magical of settings.”
The Glimmerglass Experience – an informal picnic with friends on the grounds of the Alice Busch Opera Theater, a leisurely stroll along the lake, and music theater of international reputation – is unique in the realm of opera. Our four new productions remain the center of our season, supplemented by an array of engaging events – cabarets, concerts, master classes, discussions, a symposium series and more.
Make the most of your experience:
Picnics
Enjoy our picturesque campus located along the shore of Otsego Lake while dining on a gourmet picnic. Gourmet picnics are delivered fresh to the theater daily, innovative, and created using the freshest local produce and finest ingredients.
Post-Performance Cast Parties
The Glimmerglass Guild hosts the very popular and fun cast parties after each production's opening night. Mingle with the artists you just saw on stage and enjoy a wonderful buffet. $15 per person at the door/Free for I-series subscribers.
Free Previews
One hour before each performance, join our expert music staff in the Preview Pavilion beside the theater for a free, insightful exploration of the work you're about to experience.
Young Artist Recitals
Throughout the summer, the talented members of our Young Artists Program present solo recitals, free of charge, in Cooperstown and Cherry Valley. Drop by to see and hear a future star! The 2011 recital schedule will be posted in the spring.
Backstage Tours
Each Saturday in August during the season, or by appointment (please schedule at least two weeks in advance), enjoy a free, one-hour tour of the Glimmerglass Opera campus. You'll learn about the history of Glimmerglass Opera, and take a behind-the-scenes look at how each production comes together.
Production Changeovers
When the curtain falls on a Saturday matinee in August, our skilled production crews begin a merciless race against the clock to change the scenery and lighting from the afternoon's to the evening's performance. Linger in the theater to watch and listen as the stage is transformed.
Tour the Region
Explore the beauty that inspired James Fenimore Cooper and visit the area's many parks and camping grounds. Central New York is also home to many cultural attractions, parks, shops and antique dealers. Personalize your own Cooperstown experience.
