Speaker Series: L’opéra in Kentucky

Description

L’opéra in Kentucky: The Magic, Mayhem, and Future of Opera in the Commonwealth

When: Sunday, September 20, 2026 | 3 – 4:30 pm
Where: AFL Office (View on Google Maps)
Price: Free for AFL members | $15 for non-members

Join us on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 3:00–4:30 PM for a Speaker Series event with Ben Robinson, the General Director and CEO of the Kentucky Opera. 

In this presentation, Ben Robinson explores why opera remains one of the most powerful and relevant art forms, arguing that its future depends on innovation grounded in artistic excellence. Drawing on his leadership of Kentucky Opera, he will discuss how modern opera companies must serve as cultural and civic institutions that engage communities year-round through partnerships, education, and meaningful public programming. He will share Kentucky Opera’s vision for the future, including site-specific productions, interdisciplinary collaborations, and initiatives that connect opera with history, science, education, and community life. The presentation also examines opera’s remarkable French heritage, from the court of Louis XIV to composers such as Lully, Rameau, Berlioz, Bizet, Massenet, Ravel, and Debussy, whose innovations transformed the art form.

The presentation will be in English, with time for questions and discussion.