About Us

OperaBend is a cultural gem nestled in the High Desert of Central Oregon. As a small, regional opera theatre company, OperaBend proudly collaborates with Central Oregon Community College to curate and showcase two full-length productions with orchestral accompaniment each year. Our repertoire spans the grandeur of opera, the charm of operetta, and the enchantment of American Broadway classics. At OperaBend, we celebrate the diversity of the operatic world, weaving together timeless tales that captivate the hearts of our audience. Our cast comprises a harmonious blend of local talents from the community, distinguished performers from the Pacific Northwest region, and internationally recognized stars from the Metropolitan Opera. Join us on this extraordinary journey where passion, talent, and artistry converge to create unforgettable moments on the stage. OperaBend invites you to immerse yourself in the magic of opera, where every performance is a journey of emotion, connection, and the timeless beauty of the performing arts.

Production Team

  • Picture of Jason Stein

    Jason Stein

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Jason Stein is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of OperaBend. A graduate of NYU with degrees in both acting and management, Stein combines his artistic flair and organizational expertise to bring opera to Central Oregon. Renowned for his tenor prowess, Stein has graced the stage in various iconic roles, showcasing his versatility and vocal finesse. His repertoire includes memorable performances as Don Jose in "Carmen," Herr Eisenstein in "Die Fledermaus," and Tamino in "The Magic Flute." Stein's talent has resonated across prestigious opera companies, as he has taken on principal roles with acclaimed institutions such as Emerald City Opera, Rogue Valley Opera, Obsidian Opera, Family Opera of New Jersey, and of course, OperaBend. Through his dedication and artistry, Jason Stein continues to contribute significantly to the vibrant and diverse world of opera.

  • Picture of Sarah Flagg

    Sarah Flagg

    MARKETING

    Sarah Flagg is a Central Oregon-based singer, actor, and performer. Recently gracing the stages of Ellipse Theatre Community, Central Oregon Mastersingers, and OperaBend, Sarah brings her versatile talent to the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Originally from Maine, she performed across New England, including the Rochester Opera House, Firehouse Center for the Arts, Prescott Park Arts Festival, Hackmatack Playhouse, CastAside Productions, Cue Zero Theatre Company, and more. A graduate of Mount Holyoke College and the University of Southern Maine, Sarah's musical journey includes international performances in Spain and accolades such as being selected as a Fellow for Arts Ignite's Artist As Citizen Conference. Sarah brings a vibrant energy both on and off the stage, whether she's captivating audiences or exploring the Pacific Northwest.

  • Picture of Jacalyn Kreitzer

    Jacalyn Kreitzer

    MUSICAL ADVISER

    Jacalyn Kreitzer, an acclaimed mezzo-soprano, has graced prestigious opera houses and symphonies globally, including the Deutsche Oper Berlin, Théâtre du Chatelet, and Lyric Opera of Chicago. Collaborating with luminaries like Zubin Mehta and Lorin Maazel, she has performed at Carnegie Hall and recorded with labels such as Chandos and Deutsche Grammophon. Founder of Cal Poly's Student Opera Theatre, Kreitzer received the College of Liberal Arts Outstanding Lecturer award in 2002. Recognized for her outstanding contributions to the performing arts by ARTS Obispo in 2015, she continues to be a driving force, also serving as an Opera America Panelist. Jackie retired to Bend in 2019 and her dedication to opera and the arts continues to inspire both on and off the stage.

  • Photo of Michael Gesme

    Michael Gesme

    CONDUCTOR

    Michael Gesme is a Professor of Music at Central Oregon Community College and Chair of the Department of Fine Arts and Communication. In this wonderfully diverse position, in addition to his duties with the Central Oregon Symphony, conducts the Cascade Winds Symphonic Band and has taught various and sundry music courses, including music theory, ear training, music history, and conducting, as part of a small, but flourishing music department. Michael also serves as conductor of the Central Oregon Chamber Orchestra and is the music director and conductor of orchestras of the Young Musicians and Artists (YMA) summer camp held in Salem, Oregon. He is also an active clinician and adjudicator in the region.