Indianapolis Opera cancels March “Mikado”

In a significant blow to the Indianapolis cultural calendar, the Indianapolis Opera announced just minutes ago that it’s production of "The Mikado," scheduled for March 19 and 21, won’t be happening this season.

"The decision was made in order to preserve the financial security of the company during the current troubled economy," the company stated in a press release. "The Mikado" was selected for the season based on a well-publicized vote by opera patrons and interested parties.

While other performing arts companies have tightened their seasons, this is the first major cancellation of a previously announced production. It cuts Indianapolis Opera’s mainstage season down from three productions to two, both of which have already been staged this season. This effectively silences the 35-year-old company until at least the Fall, at least for fully staged productions.

Ticket holders can either attend a rescheduled performance next season, assign their ticket cost as a tax-deductible contribution, or request a refund, to be issued in April.

The public is being invited to attend sessions set up to ask questions and discuss Indianapolis Opera’s challenges on Feb. 22 and 23 at the Basile Opera Center, 40th and Pennsylvania Streets.

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