Tulsa Opera

Happy Juneteenth! Today we celebrate freedom and honor the rich cultural contributions of Black Americans whose stories, artistry, and leadership continue to enrich our communities. We are grateful for the many singers, conductors, directors, musicians, educators, and creators who have shared their artistry with Tulsa Opera and enriched our community through their talent and storytelling.

📸 Leona Mitchell as the Mother Superior with Jenn Gambatese as Maria in 2025's THE SOUND OF MUSIC (credit: Eric Joannes)
Tesia Kwarteng as Ruth with Chris Mosz as Frederic in 2026's THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE (credit: Eric Joannes)
Stephanie Washington as Madeleine/Isabel in 2025's THE FACE ON THE BARROOM FLOOR (credit: Emily Steward)
Limmie Pulliam as Radames, Victoria Lawal as the High Priestess, and Morris Robinson as Ramfis in 2023's AIDA IN CONCERT. (Credit: Shane Bevel)

Tulsa Opera congratulates Filstrup Resident Artist and baritone Dr. Christiaan Bester, on his promotion to Associate Professor and on acheiving tenure at Oklahoma State University, where he serves on the voice faculty and is the Director of Opera Studies.

Christiaan's research focuses on marginalized and underrepresented groups, specifically Afrikaans Art Song Literature and Art Song Literature for the LGBTQIA+ community. Last year, he published a book entitled Afrikaans Art Song Literature: Translation and Pronunciation Guide with Oxford University Press and has toured the US giving lectures and recitals on the topic.

Christiaan will appear in Tulsa Opera's upcoming production of Mozart's THE IMPRESARIO, a company premiere.

On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the first official flag of the United States. Today, Flag Day commemorates the history of the American flag and the ideals it represents.

Today we celebrate the rich tapestry of people, cultures, and stories that make up our nation and the communities we serve through the arts.

We were FLOODED with happy audience members after our final production of the season! Not even the torrential downpour could stop folks for showing up for Tulsa Youth Opera's terrific rendition of NOAH'S FLOOD. Congratulations to TYO, the Tulsa Opera Orchestra, Tulsa Youth Symphony, Tulsa Festival Ringers, and all who made this show a success.

📸 Eric Joannes