The World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries is proud to present a special sneak preview of Opera Theatre of St. Louis‘ (OTSL) highly anticipated 2026 Festival Season. Step into our intimate, one-of-a-kind venue, where you can enjoy world-class voices surrounded by thought-provoking exhibitions. This is an evening for cultural connoisseurs to discover the next must-see theatrical events.

The Program: Four Operas, One Night

This unique performance offers a guided tour through the musical landscape of OTSL’s upcoming festival. Hear the most beloved arias and ensembles from four diverse productions:

  • A classic comic operetta: The Pirates of Penzance
  • A Tony Award-winning musical theatre gem: The Light in the Piazza
  • A defining American opera: A Streetcar Named Desire
  • A grand romantic tragedy: Romeo and Juliet

From classic to contemporary, you’ll leave humming some of opera’s most beloved tunes and eager for OTSL’s opening night in May!

The Performers: The Stars of Tomorrow

Experience the powerful voices of the OTSL Gerdine Young Artists, recognized nationally as some of the finest emerging talent in the opera world. More than 1,000 artists apply for the program each year, and just 30 are selected in a nationwide audition tour. Hear these stars on the rise in St. Louis before their careers take them to leading opera houses across the country!

Thematic Connection: Strategy on the Stage

Just as a master chess player plans multiple moves ahead, opera productions represent years of planning and production that come together to create a unified emotional experience. This preview celebrates that strategic and artistic depth, connecting the high-stakes drama of the opera stage to the intellectual intensity found within the Hall of Fame.

Venue, Tickets, and Full Schedule

Experience this concert surrounded by our incredible permanent and rotating art exhibitions and history exhibits.

Full Evening Schedule:

  • 5:30 PM: Doors Open (Cash bar available)
  • 6:00 PM: Artist Talk with WCHOF Music Director Brian Woods
  • 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert Performance

Details:

  • Venue: World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries
  • Tickets: $25 General Admission, $20 WCHOF Members.
  • A complimentary drink ticket is included with every ticket purchase.
  • Seating is extremely limited for this intimate performance held inside our gallery, offering a rare, up-close listening experience.

Can’t make it to the concert? Be sure to watch the livestream on the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries’ YouTube channel.