Townsend Opera Tickets

Townsend Opera is a storied voice in Central California’s cultural landscape. Originating as Townsend Opera Players in 1983 in Modesto, the company was founded by Erik “Buck” Townsend and led by Buck until his passing in 2008. The organization evolved over the years, guided by new leadership from Matthew Buckman and Roy Stevens, and was renamed Opera Modesto in 2018. This page highlights the performer lineage and ongoing contributions of Townsend Opera within the community.

As a company, Townsend Opera has fostered talent through education and outreach initiatives such as the Kristina Townsend Memorial Vocal Competition, the Story Into Song Literacy Initiative, and the Summer Opera Institute. These programs nurture local young singers and emphasize literacy through the arts, strengthening the bond between opera and the Modesto community.

Opera Modesto is known for notable productions, including the world premiere of Zenobia Powell Perry’s Tawawa House, a landmark achievement produced under the Townsend Opera umbrella. The company continues collaborations with local schools and regional venues, ensuring fresh, accessible opera experiences for audiences of all ages.

For fans and newcomers alike, Townsend Opera represents a reliable, friendly path to engaging, high-quality opera, with a focus on community connection and artistic excellence. Secure your seats for upcoming performances and join us for this enduring artistic journey in Modesto.

Upcoming Tour Highlight: In 2025, Opera Modesto presented The Elixir of Love at Foster Family Theater, Gallo Center for the Arts, with performances on September 19, 2025 at 7:30 PM and September 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Each performance is treated as a standalone event, offering the same level of care, production quality, and opportunity to experience Townsend Opera’s enduring legacy. Follow Opera Modesto on social media for the latest updates and tour information.

To explore more about Townsend Opera, visit the official Opera Modesto site and follow the company’s channels for updates, auditions, and community programs that continue to nurture local talent and celebrate opera as a shared cultural experience in Modesto and the surrounding region.