The Atlanta Opera’s 2011-12 season features three fantastic shows: Lucia Di Lammermoor, the story of a woman who is forced into a marriage, setting off a domino effect of tragedies; Don Giovonni, Mozart’s tragicomic take on famous anti-hero Don Juan; and The Golden Ticket, a comic opera based on the popular children’s book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (which might be more familiar to film fanatics as the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory).

Because the Atlanta Opera’s mission is to make opera more accessible to modern audiences, ticket prices start as low as $25 and educational programs often are offered free of charge. They take an unconventional approach to education and outreach, as well. At a recent “Pop-up Opera” held last fall, shoppers at a Sandy Springs farmers market were completely, yet pleasantly, surprised as a singer amongst them began to belt out a song from the opera La bohème. Check out this video to see for yourself how engaging opera can be.

Don’t miss the last two shows of the 2010-2011 season: Così fan tutte (April 9, 12, 15 and 17, 2011) and Porgy & Bess (Feb. 26, March 1, 4 and 6, 2011). Also coming up is the exciting 24-Hour Opera Project during National Opera week. Talented young composers will have 12 hours to write a seven- to 10-minute opera that will be performed Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Georgia State University.

To find out about more Atlanta Opera events (including Pop-up Operas) follow them on Twitter @TheAtlantaOpera or visit atlantaopera.org.

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Madeline is a senior at Centennial High School and will be attending Florida State University in the fall.