Puccini’s incomparable La Bohème could be the world’s best-loved and most widely recognized opera of all time.
When it comes to the power of music to stir human passions, La Bohème virtually defines the term “romantic.” And so PORTopera is thrilled to stage Puccini’s universally acclaimed masterpiece at Merrill Auditorium this July.
If you could choose a single musical experience for the year or for a lifetime, La Bohème would effortlessly suffice — an experience as wild and passionate as your own imagination.
“A beautiful musical experience you will never forget.”
- Suzanne Nance, Maine Public Radio
Again PORTopera brings a world-class cast of singers including several from the Metropolitan Opera. We have a brighter Paris of 1909. We have a fantastic orchestra of 50+ musicians. We have Tony Award winning lighting designer Christopher Akerlind. And we have a story of struggling young artists and friends and a poignant love story of such tender and magnificent beauty it will remain in your heart forever.
Two Nights and One Matinee Only — Don’t Miss La Bohème!
Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy this amazing production of La Bohème! Guaranteed to be an experience you will never forget.
Join PORTopera’s dramaturg Calien Lewis one hour before curtain
for a free talk on the history and artistry of La Bohème.
2013 Gala - Friday, June 14!
Perry Milou illustrationUn Soir à Café Momus
Mark your calendar NOW to join the fun for this year’s gala dinner dance/auction at the Marriott Sable Oaks. This year’s event will benefit PORTopera's 19th season presentation of Puccini’s La Bohème.
You’ll want to bring friends to our Parisian Cabaret for tasty selections from our boulangerie, fromagerie, creperie, patisserie, and of course good wines!
Our auction will feature some favorites, like a walk-on role in the opera, opera trips to New York Washington, DC, and something exciting and new - a week in Paris! Soprano Suzanne Nance and tenor John McVeigh will headline an entertainment roster to include street performers, dancers, etc., and as ever, there'll be dancing to the Bob Charest Band.
For more information, or to request an invitation, phone
(207) 879-7678.
Become a PORTopera Supporter!
There are several ways to help PORTopera in its mission of creating full productions of grand opera for Maine audiences. Financial support is primary and represents about 30% of PORTopera's total income.
Individual Support
Our patrons include many hundreds from Maine and elsewhere. We also invite the help of private foundations. You are invited to participate in our current campaign — and many thanks!
For your convenience, we now accept online donations through our secure donation page.
Volunteer Support
There are New Opportunities for You to Get Involved with PORTopera!
PORTopera has openings for new members to participate on committees in the coming year. There are also openings for three new Board members for positions available due to term expirations. Click here for more information, 
or click the volunteer button to fill out our volunteer form!
Corporate Support
A large number of Greater Portland businesses have underwritten PORTopera productions.
They include those listed at right to name but a few. 
If your company has interest in joining this group, please contact us.
Shop PORTopera!
Purchases through the PORTopera store help fund our programs and operas. Items currently include Cucina del Bel Canto (the first official PORTopera cookbook) and a sterling silver pendant.
PORTopera receives National Endowment for the Arts grant to support La Bohème
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Acting Chairman Joan Shigekawa announced today that PORTopera is one of 817 nonprofit organizations nationwide to receive an NEA Art Works grant. PORTopera is recommended for a $10,000 grant to support their 2013 production of La Bohème.
Tickets now on sale!
Tickets for PORTopera's July, 2013, production of Puccini's incomparable La Bohème are now on sale at the PortTix box office, 20 Myrtle St, in Portland! www.porttix.com. Hours are noon-6, Monday through Saturday. La Bohème will have three performances: Wednesday, July 24; Friday, July 26, and Sunday, July 28 (matinee).
Join us for this new production, one of the most beloved operas of all time! With beautiful sets, wonderful costumes and an orchestra of over 50 musicians, La Bohème will transfix you as it weaves the story of struggling young artists and friends in 19th century Paris with a love story of such magnificent beauty, it is an indelible experience you may never forget.
Bring Opera into
your home!
Welcome PORTopera co-founder Jack Riddle into your own home to lead a lively conversation replete with musical selections, historical nuance, and special insights on preparing you and your guests for next season’s PORTopera experience. Call (207) 879-7678 to register and work directly with Jack to schedule your very own opera event. Best of all ... it’s FREE!
