Recent Events
The Spring Career Advancement Award celebration and luncheon on April 2 at the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony Campus was a resounding success, featuring an unforgettable performance by baritone Alex Granito. A current Artist in Residence with Opera Colorado, Granito captivated the audience with selections that showcased his remarkable range and artistic depth. Accompanied by the talented Daniel Brink, his performance offered a glimpse into the bright future of this rising opera star. Guests enjoyed a light lunch provided by the PPOL Hospitality Team, making the midday gathering both enriching and warmly social. This monthly program continues to highlight extraordinary talent and connect our community through the power of music. (Photo Credit: Dr. Susan Rae Jensen for Pikes Peak Opera League) - Click on photos to expand.
Guests were treated to a delightful blend of jokes and melodies as March Merriment humorously explored the artistic rivalries of Georges Bizet, Jacques Offenbach, Francis Poulenc, and Erik Satie. With French repertoire, history, culture, and a healthy dose of silliness, the evening was an unforgettable escape into the world of music and mirth.A heartfelt thank you to Eapen Leubner and Art Song Colorado for bringing this joyous event to life, and to our generous supporters who made it possible. The evening featured a cocktail appetizer buffet, with beverages available for purchase, adding to the festive atmosphere. This ticketed event was made possible through the generous support of Dr. Susan Rae Jensen and Tom Trainer and Robyn Hamilton and Grant Langdon.
(Photo Credit: Dr. Susan Rae Jensen) - Click on photos to expand.
On Feb. 5, 2025, the Pikes Peak Opera League hosted a Black History Month celebration at the Colorado Springs Conservatory, featuring the Soprano Stephanie Ann Ball. Attendees were treated to an afternoon of powerful performances honoring the rich contributions of African American artists to the world of opera. The event showcased the incredible talent of Ms. Ball, as well as the progress of young PPOL scholarship students. Dessert bites provided by the PPOL Hospitality Team and decaf coffee added a warm touch. Ms. Ball's appearance was generously sponsored by The Shivers Fund at PPLD and Mr. Brink by Lynne Lange, the accompanist sponsor. (Photo Credit: Dr. Susan Rae Jensen).
We were delighted to welcome so many friends and supporters to Fall Fest on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church. The evening was filled with elegance, charm, and an unforgettable performance of The Old Maid and the Thief, presented by the talented Bel Canto Legacy ensemble. Special thanks to our incredible performers—Connie Heidenreich, Moses Swedberg, Priscilla Viteri, Ashley Troester, and Malcolm Ulbrick—for bringing this timeless tale to life with their artistry and passion. Guests enjoyed a delicious catered dinner, complemented by fine wines provided by Sovereignty Wines and Elizabeth Leslie. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors Dr. Susan Rae Jensen and Mr. Tom Trainer and Purple Mountain Group at Morgan Stanley. Photo Credit: Tom Trainer.
On December 4th, the Pikes Peak Opera League hosted its Annual Holiday Luncheon at the stunningly elegant and historic Cheyenne Mountain Country Club. This cherished tradition dazzled attendees with remarkable performances by pianist Oleg Bellini, along with Opera Colorado artists Kerby Baier, soprano, and Dante Mireles, baritone, who captivated the audience with their extraordinary talent. Guests were treated to a festive afternoon filled with seasonal music, gourmet cuisine, and exquisite holiday décor. It was the perfect occasion to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and immerse oneself in the spirit of the season, all while enjoying the exceptional performances of these gifted artists.
Proceeds from the luncheon benefit the Pikes Peak Opera League’s mission to nurture and celebrate vocal arts throughout the Pikes Peak region. Photos by Dr. Susan Rae Jensen.
The Opening Night Mini Gala on October 4, 2024, featured the whimsical Professor Splatz and the Singing Book, a Kids First Family Opera. This delightful production was brought to life with the special contributions of Judeth Shay Comstock, Birgitta De Pree, and Dan Brink. Their artistry and dedication added an extra layer of charm to a fun-filled evening of music, storytelling, and opera designed for all ages at the Millibo Art Theatre. It was a magical opportunity to experience opera like never before—an event everyone enjoyed! (Photo credit: Susan Rae Jensen.)
Members were welcomed back as PPOL celebrated the beginning of another exciting year of programs and events. We were thrilled to hear from a remarkable talent within our community, Deborah Anderson, the Fall Career Advancement Award Recipient. Many of you may remember her from our February 2023 program honoring Black History Month. The event featured a monthly program at not cost to members with finger foods catered by Patti White and wine available for purchase. Photos courtesy of Susan Rae Jensen.
