What is it exactly that makes opera in the Berkshires so special and magical?
The other day, I was introduced to someone who had heard of Berkshire Opera Festival and of our strong artistic reputation, but hadn't yet attended a performance. I explained who BOF is and what we do, and during the course of our conversation, I was reminded of what makes attending a BOF performance so special.
Jasmine Habersham (Nannetta) and Sebastian Catana (Falstaff) with the women of the BOF Chorus in Falstaff (2021). Photo: Ken Howard.
The most frequent comment I receive from BOF patrons is how impressed they are by the quality of our performances. They feel our productions rival those presented by larger, longer-established companies in major cities, and yet the audience experience is completely different.
No straining your eyes to see the stage in a massive theater surrounded by thousands of other opera-goers. Instead, BOF's orchestra and singers are just yards away. The people sitting next to you in the house aren't anonymous strangers; they are your friends and neighbors. There is an intimacy between the performers and the audience that makes the air seem to pulse with electricity. It is a deeply personal and visceral experience - nothing less than pure magic.
BOF Co-Founder and Artistic Director Brian Garman conducts the cast and BOF Orchestra in a dress rehearsal of Ariadne auf Naxos (2017). Photo: Ken Howard.
Please help keep the magic of opera alive in the Berkshires this holiday season by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution to Berkshire Opera Festival as part of your year-end charitable giving plans.
On behalf of everyone at Berkshire Opera Festival, I thank you for your friendship and look forward to sharing another magical season of opera with you in 2023!
Making a Gift by Mail Donations by check should be made out to "Berkshire Opera Festival" and mailed to:
54 Wendell Avenue, Suite 5
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Other Ways to Give To learn about other ways to donate, including through a gift of stock or donor-advised fund, please visit our website.
Annual Fund Donor Levels & Benefits BOF provides a variety of benefits to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to our donors. To learn about the many benefits that come with being a BOF supporter, including early access to season tickets ahead of the general public, please visit our website.
NEW!Donor-Sponsored Initiatives In addition to supporting our Annual Fund, BOF also has opportunities for donors to personalize their giving experience by directly underwriting a specific program or initiative. Examples of donor-sponsored initiatives include artist receptions and cast parties, student internships, musical instrument and equipment purchases, and sponsoring a recital. In recognition of your generosity, BOF will work with you to create a customized acknowledgment and benefits package. Please contact BOF’s Development Office to learn about current opportunities.
