Early opera houses were casinos and beer halls. In keeping with our efforts to connect new audiences with the true spirit of opera, we at Montana Lyric Opera figured: Why not go back to where it started?

Thus was born Opera on Draft, a performance series that takes opera to area taverns for some fun, irreverent nights of great music in a relaxed environment. Sponsored by Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, our first two Opera on Draft events were smashing successes, drawing standing-room-only crowds to the Badlander in Missoula. (Check out this first-hand account of the first Opera on Draft!)

In the spring of 2009, MLO expanded its Opera on Draft programs to Whitefish, performing for an equally appreciative audience at the Craggy Range. (Click here to read a preview of that event in the Flathead Beacon, or here to read another preview in the Missoulian.)

If you missed those events, don’t sweat it. Opera on Draft will return in the spring of 2010. Also, at risk of giving away our secret plans, don’t be surprised if you find yourself suddenly serenaded by singers at local restaurants or bars in the near future...the Opera Strike Force is on the move!