Union Avenue Opera

Big Impact. Bold Artistry. 
Unforgettable Opera Made in St. Louis.

Union Avenue Opera (UAO) is where world-class opera meets community impact. Now in its 32nd Festival Season, UAO brings fully staged productions to life on a budget just over $600,000, proving that passion, creativity, and local support can achieve extraordinary results.

Experience the 2026 Festival Season

This summer’s lineup has something for everyone:

Fiddler on the Roof - July 3, 5, 10, 11
A timeless story of tradition, family, and resilience.

L’elisir d’amore - July 24, 25, 31, August 1
A romantic comedy filled with warmth, humor, and unforgettable music.

Samson et Dalila - August 14, 15, 21, 22
A sweeping, dramatic masterpiece of power and passion.

Three distinct productions. One unforgettable St. Louis experience.

Your Impact in Action

Your support goes far beyond the stage. Each season, UAO employs more than 140 artists and professionals, nearly 90% from the St. Louis region—fueling the local arts economy and sustaining creative careers.

UAO is also committed to the future of opera through its CRESCENDO! program, providing free training, mentorship, and performance opportunities for emerging artists. To date, the program has helped launch more than 100 careers.

What Your Gift Makes Possible

Producing opera is a collaborative effort that requires artists, musicians, designers, and countless hours of preparation. Your gift directly supports this work:

• $50 helps provide costumes, props, and essential production materials
• $100 supports a CRESCENDO! artist with training and mentorship
• $250 contributes to rehearsal costs and music preparation
• $500 helps support local artists and chorus members
• $1,000 contributes to orchestra and principal artist expenses
• $2,500+ plays a significant role in bringing a fully staged production to life

Every gift—at every level—combines to make world-class opera possible in St. Louis.

Why It Matters

UAO makes opera accessible, intimate, and deeply connected to the community. Whether attending for the first time or returning each season, audiences experience powerful storytelling that brings people together.

Make Your Gift Today

On Give STL Day, your support makes this work possible.

Help us:

• Bring bold productions to life
• Support local artists
• Train the next generation of performers
• Keep opera and the arts thriving in St. Louis

~ Give today and be part of the story ~