Review and photos by DMMC volunteer contributor Sandra Thompson. Interested in contributing to this website? Contact us!

I love the opera.   A feeling of giddiness comes over me when I get to listen to the opera, just as it does when I listen to my favorite swoon-worthy banjo wielding bands (note, I love the banjo.)  I fell in love with the song and the drama while an Opera troupe visited my school in fourth grade.  Outside of Bugs Bunny cartoons, I had never heard it prior, but felt an instant attraction.

Last weekend, in support of its forty-second year, the Des Moines Metro Opera (DMMO) put on its Food and Wine showcase followed by Club Opera.  At the showcase, there were more wine samples than one could reasonably drink, caviar, cupcakes, cheese, chocolate and so many more delicious treats to sample.  Patrons that secured a VIP pass were granted special wine and food sampling, as well as a few select arias performed by the DMMO.

The fun continued through the night over at Club Opera, at Big City Burgers and Greens.  Arias were performed to techno music, courtesy of DJ John Solarz. If you’ve never attended an opera event, an event such as Club Opera is a great way to get your feet wet.  Club Opera is low key and full of fun.

DMMO has plenty of upcoming events, including a show at the Des Moines Social Club, this summer.  Check out Desmoinesmetroopera.org to learn more.  I can’t wait to see what fun is headed our way.