Opera Ensemble

The AU Opera Theatre Ensemble is the university’s opera and music theatre performing ensemble. Students in ALL DISCIPLINES of study are welcome to register for this class MUSI 4610 which is offered every semester Mon/Wed 1-2:50 pm!

Pirates

 AU Opera Theatre is an artistic and educational training program for undergraduate singers. We offer tailored performance opportunities each semester that aid in strengthening skills young musicians need as singing actors. Recent semesters have included fully staged productions, scenes programs, music theatre cabarets, and educational outreach performances at local schools and off campus theatres. Our mission includes introducing students to opera, music theatre, and operetta repertory; providing high-level music preparation and dramatic training; teaching students how to improve their work in character development; and preparing participants with the foundations and prerequisites of musicianship and stage performance for graduate-level and pre-professional work.

Above all, we aim to connect with the audience and each other to tell fabulous stories on stage!
 

Upcoming Auditions

 

OPEN AUDITIONS for main character roles in our Spring production of The Man of La Mancha will be held September 16th, 2026 at 1-3 p.m. in B111 in the Fine Arts Building or by appointment from September 14-18, 2026 with the director, Dr. Courtney Kalbacker. Email for an appointment or with any questions: Dr. Courtney Kalbacker ckalbacker@augusta.edu. Bring sheet music or a back track from a classic music theatre song to perform. You can also sing Happy Birthday! Dialogue sides provided on site at the audition. All roles open to any AU student.  AU students must enroll during SPRING 2027 in the class "AU Opera Ensemble" MUSI 4610 (1 credit) which meets 1-2:50pm Monday and Wednesday to have a role in the spring musical. Priority will be given to students enrolled in both semesters, Fall 2026 and Spring 2027. 
 
Photos from the spring 2026 Operetta: "The Pirates of Penzance"

Upcoming Performances 2026-2027

 

Opera and Music Theatre Scenes Concert:

  • Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 4pm
  • FAC Recital Hall
  • Tickets FREE for AU students and Faculty/Staff

Performance on stage Pirates of Penzance

Join us in the Fine Arts Center Recital Hall for an evening of captivating musical storytelling. Our AU opera students will entertain you as they display their singing-acting skills in short scenes and songs from the music theatre and opera canon.

Maxwell Theatre Upcoming Events

 

Spring 2027 Mainstage Show:

  • The MAN OF LA MANCHA by Leigh and Darion
  • April 17 at 7 pm and April 18 at 3pm
  • Maxwell Theatre, Augusta University 
  • Tickets FREE for AU students and Faculty/Staff

More information can be found on the Maxwell Theatre ticketing website beginning Fall 2026!

 

 

 

Contact Us

Opera Ensemble

Dr. Courtney Kalbacker

ckalbacker@augusta.edu

706-667-4872