Opera Modesto will present a family-focused weekend of events at the State Theatre of Modesto from Jan. 16–18, 2026.
The centerpiece showcase will be a fully staged production of “Cendrillon,” Pauline Viardot’s operetta based on the classic fairytale. The production features a 13-piece orchestra, opera singers from across the U.S., including artists from California’s Central Valley, and English-language projections integrated into animated visuals. Performances are sung in English.
The production, which will take place on Jan. 17 and 18, 2026, is part of Opera Modesto’s “Story Into-Song Literacy Initiative,” an annual program addressing low literacy rates in the Central Valley. Following the public performances, “Cinderella” tours regional schools through February, reaching more than 10,000 students. The initiative pairs live opera with curriculum-aligned educational materials and introduces students to professional singers and live, unamplified performance…