Season 2, Episode 5: Behind every summer is a community that keeps Fire Island alive. This episode explores the history of the beloved Pines Pantry through the eyes of its iconic Pantry Girls, alongside the volunteer firefighters of The Pines and Cherry Grove who protect the island from fires, hurricanes, beach erosion, and an uncertain future.
Merola Opera Program to Present MEROLA GRAND FINALE
This summer’s program features 28 artists selected by Merola from over 1,500 international applicants.
By: Chloe Rabinowitz
San Francisco’s Merola Opera Program, one of the world’s most prestigious opera training programs, will close its 2026 Summer Festival with the annual Merola Grand Finale. The performance marks the culmination of the season, bringing together participants for a vibrant showcase of operatic selections at the War Memorial Opera House. This summer’s program features 28 artists selected by Merola from over 1,500 international applicants. The 2026 cohort reflects a global community, with participants from Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. The event will take place at 7:30pm, August 15, 2026 at the War Memorial Opera House.
Conducted by William Long and directed by 2026 Merola Stage Director Claire Choquette, this electrifying performance features arias, ensembles, and scenes from across the repertoire, highlighting the technical skill and artistic growth the artists have achieved throughout the program. Audiences will celebrate the artists’ progress in a capstone demonstration of their work in the home of San Francisco Opera. Following the performance, guests can join the Merola artists for a celebratory reception at the Wilsey Center for Opera (separate ticket required). Performed with English supertitles.
TICKETS: $95/$75/$65/$35; $25/$15 (ages 25 and under)
Reception Tickets: $85*
*The reception will take place at The Wilsey Center for Opera
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