James Madison University Stages Mozart's 'Idomeneo' Opera

The JMU Opera Theatre brings the classic Greek mythology tale to life in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 11:23am

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An abstract, geometric illustration in shades of blue, green, and orange, capturing the dramatic themes and mythological elements of Mozart's opera 'Idomeneo' without using any text or literal imagery.The JMU Opera Theatre's production of Mozart's 'Idomeneo' brings the classic Greek myth to life through a visually striking, minimalist staging.Harrisonburg Today

The James Madison University Opera Theatre recently staged a production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's opera 'Idomeneo, re di Creta ossia Ilia e Idamante' at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The opera, based on the Greek myth of King Idomeneus of Crete, featured a talented cast of student singers including Kaylea Manners, Tanya Corcuera, Sofia Vazquez, and Augusta Nafziger, under the baton of conductor Ivan Godoy.

Why it matters

The JMU Opera Theatre's staging of 'Idomeneo' continues the university's long tradition of bringing classic operas to life and providing valuable performance experience for its music students. As one of the few university opera programs in the state of Virginia, the JMU production helps expose local audiences to high-quality opera productions.

The details

The two-night run of 'Idomeneo' at the Forbes Center featured a traditional staging directed by the JMU Opera Theatre, with set design by Joshua Borths. The opera was performed in the original Italian with no subtitles provided. Pianist Steven Brancaleone provided accompaniment for the student singers.

  • The 'Idomeneo' performances took place on April 5 and 6, 2025.
  • The JMU Opera Theatre has been staging operas at the Forbes Center since the venue opened in 2015.

The players

James Madison University Opera Theatre

The opera performance program at James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, which regularly stages classic operas for local audiences.

Forbes Center for the Performing Arts

The main performance venue at James Madison University, which opened in 2015 and hosts a variety of music, theater, and dance productions.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

The renowned 18th century Austrian composer who wrote the opera 'Idomeneo' based on the Greek myth of King Idomeneus of Crete.

Ivan Godoy

The conductor who led the JMU Opera Theatre's production of 'Idomeneo'.

Joshua Borths

The set designer for the JMU Opera Theatre's staging of 'Idomeneo'.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing a classic opera like 'Idomeneo' to life on our stage is a wonderful opportunity for our music students to hone their performance skills and share this timeless work with our community.”

— Dr. John Allemeier, Director, JMU School of Music

“The cast and crew have worked incredibly hard to do justice to Mozart's masterpiece, and I'm proud of the level of artistry they've achieved.”

— Ivan Godoy, Conductor

What’s next

The JMU Opera Theatre is expected to announce its 2026 season lineup later this year, which may include another classic opera production.

The takeaway

The JMU Opera Theatre's staging of 'Idomeneo' demonstrates the university's commitment to providing high-quality opera experiences for students and the broader Harrisonburg community, continuing a long tradition of bringing classic works to life on the stage.