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True Love is Just a Haircut Away.
A jack-of-all trades, the wily barber Figaro has a scheme for anything. Moved by the distress of two young lovers separated by the curmudgeonly Doctor Bartolo, Figaro pulls out his bag of tricks. But will Figaro’s scheming allow Rosina to escape the clutches of her guardian into true love’s embrace with Count Almaviva?
Rossini’s exuberant comedy features some of the most joyful music in all of opera. From the famous overture to the irresistible “Largo al factotum,” this masterpiece of comedic writing has delighted audiences for over two hundred years.
SF/Arts Curator Insight
San Francisco Opera kicks off its 2026 Summer Season with a light, funny, feel-good opera. Gioachino Rossini’s "The Barber of Seville" (Il Barbiere di Siviglia), is conducted by Benjamin Manis and staged in Emilio Sagi’s lively, colorful production starting off clean and simple before bursting into color as the story unfolds. One of opera’s most beloved comedies, the story follows Figaro, the clever barber who helps two young lovers outsmart an overbearing guardian. Rossini’s score is packed with hits like “Largo al factotum” and “Una voce poco fa,” full of energy, humor, and unforgettable melodies. The production features Figaro performed by Joshua Hopkins and Justin Austin, with Rosina sung by Maria Kataeva and Hongni Wu.
Catherine Barry
Editor & Designer
We have been thrilling audiences in San Francisco since 1923. We are known for commissioning numerous world premieres, training some of opera's greatest young artists and being one of the world’s leading opera companies.
We have been thrilling audiences in San Francisco since 1923. We are known for commissioning numerous world premieres, training some of opera's greatest young artists and being one of the world’s leading opera companies.