Recent Events
Though March marks the start of spring, a crisp Colorado evening set the perfect scene for March Merriment - Amuse Bouche, a warm and lively gathering filled with laughter, music, and camaraderie. Presented by Art Song Colorado at Patty Jewett, this enchanting fundraiser transformed the space into a Parisian café, where legendary composers came to life in a playful operatic comedy.
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.
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.)
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.
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.
On June 22, 2024 the Pikes Peak Opera League proudly presented a sold-out performance of "Little Red" a captivating production by Opera Theatre of the Rockies. Held at the intimate Millibo Art Theatre, this enchanting adaptation of the beloved fairytale, directed by Stephanie Brink and written by Seymour Barab, delighted audiences of all ages. Attendees were transported on an imaginative journey through the woods, experiencing the magic and wonder of opera in a family-friendly format. Beforehand, guests enjoyed delicious ice cream refreshments, adding a sweet touch to an already magical afternoon. Sponsored by Purple Mountain Group at Morgan Stanley. Event Sponsors were Dr. Susan Rae Jensen & Mr. Tom Trainer and Eve Tilley & Sol Chavez. Program Sponsor was Opera Theatre of the Rockies and the Refreshment Sponsor was The Millibo Art Theatre. Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Leslie and Lori Bammesberger.
Held on May 1 at Cheyenne Mountain Country Club, the Spring Luncheon and Membership Meeting was a lovely celebration of the 45th Anniversary of the Pikes Peak Opera League, featuring stars from the Opera Theatre of the Rockies Vocal Arts Festival Tiffany Grant and Rinnah Perez, accompanied by Daniel Brink. Program Sponsors: Dr. Susan Rae Jensen & Mr. Tom Trainer, Nicole de Naray and Opera Theatre of the Rockies. Accompanist Sponsors: Elizabeth Bond and Chris Ruygrok. Photos courtesy of Dr. Susan Rae Jensen.
Members and guests enjoyed the acclaimed tenor Nathan Snyder at our Spring Career Advancement Award Concert on April 3, 2024. Nathan was recently praised for his "rich and nuanced" sound and "riveting" acting. The program was a delightful showcase of his versatility, spanning contemporary repertoire, standard roles, and captivating concert performances. Program Sponsors were Joan Agee, Sue Anselmi and Members of PPOL. Photos courtesy of Tom Trainer, edited by Dr. Susan Rae Jensen.
