Yale Alumni College invites you to experience the enchanting world of opera this August.

Join us for a four-day summer adventure to the Glimmerglass Festival in Cooperstown, New York, as we celebrate its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1975, the Glimmerglass Festival has grown into one of the premier opera festivals in the United States, known for its innovative productions and commitment to both classic and contemporary works. This milestone season promises to be especially popular, featuring a mix of dramatic and innovative performances.

We’ll be immersed in main stage productions of Puccini`s powerful Tosca (Illica & Giacosa), Stravinsky`s intriguing The Rake’s Progress (Auden & Kallman), the World Premiere of The House on Mango Street (Bermel/Cisneros), and the cherished musical Sunday in The Park With George (Sondheim & Lapine).

Our esteemed faculty leader, Yale`s Gundula Kreuzer, will be accompanied by multiple guest speakers, including general and Artistic director Robert Ainsley, who will offer deep insights into the productions. We are proud to highlight the many Yale-affiliated individuals who have contributed to the festival`s success over the years, further enriching our experience.

Experience the open-air design and cutting-edge acoustics of the lakeside theater, providing a pristine, unamplified musical experience – opera as it was intended.

While the opera is the highlight, Cooperstown offers a wealth of attractions. This charming town, home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, numerous museums, and pristine lakes, provides a rich cultural backdrop. Enjoy a curator-led tour of the Fenimore Art Gallery`s exclusive collections, and personalize your visit with optional activities such as a tranquil boat tour of Otsego Lake or a visit to the iconic Baseball Hall of Fame.

Accommodation options include the elegant Otesaga Resort Hotel, with its stunning views of Lake Otsego and luxurious amenities reminiscent of the golden age of travel. Alternatively, the Railroad Inn offers spacious, contemporary guest rooms with historic railroad-themed decor, providing a modern and stylish lodging choice. Both hotels are designed to enhance your experience, offering unique features to suit different preferences. We’ll bid farewell and take our final bows around the fire-table at the Otesaga resort, followed by a celebratory farewell dinner.