Opera at the Movies: Farinelli + Panel Discussion

OPERA SANTA BARBARA presents
Opera at the Movies: Farinelli + Panel Discussion
The film, the history, and the voice that changed opera forever

February 17, 2026

Explore the world of George Frederic Handel and Baroque music with us in a screening of this Golden Globe award winning biographical drama film about the 18th-century Italian opera singer Carlo Broschi, also known as Farinelli, considered the greatest castrato singer of all time. Join our post-film discussion with guest speakers examining the film’s operatic and historic context and how baroque opera is being adapted for contemporary audiences in Opera Santa Barbara’s upcoming production of Caesar and Cleopatra at the Lobero Theatre, February 27 & March 1, 2026

Panelists:

Derek Katz, Associate Professor of Music History at UCSB

Christina Pezzarossi Ramsey, Mezzo Soprano performing Cornelia in Opera Santa Barbara’s Caesar & Cleopatra

Stefanie Tcharos, Associate Professor of Musicology at UCSB, research focuses on critical history of opera and early modern music history

Simon Williams, Moderator: OSB Board member and Professor Emeritus, UCSB Department of Theatre and Dance.

Performance Date and Times:
Tuesday, February 17 at 6:00 PM
Pre-film reception with refreshments for registered guests.

6:50 PM Film viewing and panel.

Reservations & Ticket Price
*Reservations are required*

Ticket Price:
Free.
Suggested donation: $25.00 Support opera education for all ages.

**All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.**

All seating is general admission unless otherwise noted. For all performances, there is limited late seating once the performance begins. Please plan your arrival time accordingly.

You can use e-tickets, print-at-home tickets, or request that Will Call tickets wait for you at the Box Office. If you have any questions, please email Jim Sirianni at info@centerstagetheater.org.

Thank you to everyone in the community for your continued support. We would not still be here without you!