Announcing a new international opera initiative from CAP UCLA

Open Field

 

Launching in the 2026–27 season, Open Field presents U.S. premieres of rarely seen opera works by international creators throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America, This new initiative establishes vibrant cultural connections between L.A. audiences and contemporary opera worldwide.

Open Field is a multi-year platform for bringing bold opera works from cultures not traditionally reflected on U.S. stages, encouraging creative cross pollination.

Artistic Leadership

Edgar and Timur headshots

Open Field is curated and produced by Timur Bekbosunov, in close collaboration with Edgar Miramontes, Executive and Artistic Director of CAP UCLA.

Together, they guide the creative vision, artist selection, and long-term development of the initiative, ensuring each project reflects both international excellence and local collaboration.

Beyond the stage

Side events and community engagement

Surrounding the premiere, we will present a series of side events designed to deepen engagement and invite audiences into the creative world of the opera, including:

  • Artist talks and post-performance conversations

  • Panels exploring Kafka's legacy and contemporary opera-making

  • Workshops with local artists and students

  • Community and partner events developed with L.A. arts organizations

Additional operas, international collaborators and thematic focuses will be announced as projects are confirmed. CAP UCLA is committed to this evolving, multi-year exploration of contemporary opera across cultures.

Inaugural season in 2026-27

Kafka on stage
Kafka on stage
Inaugural season in 2026-27

Kafka’s Letter to His Father

By Czech composer, conductor and educator Jiři Trtik,
With libretto by Czech poet Jan Škrob
In collaboration with Brightwork Ensemble and The Opera of Timur
November 12–15, 2026
The Nimoy
Performed in Czech with English supertitles
U.S. Premiere

Adapted from Franz Kafka’s searing, intimate letter to his father, this acclaimed opera – premiered by the National Theater in Prague in 2024 – transforms one of the 20th century’s most powerful literary documents into a gripping theatrical experience. Blending music, voice and psychological intensity, the work offers a raw exploration of authority, vulnerability, and identity — hallmarks of the kind of urgent, artist-driven operas Open Field is committed to presenting.

The production marks the first in Open Field’s multi-year international focus and sets the tone for the initiative’s emphasis on bold contemporary storytelling.

Tickets are on sale June 17, 2026. Join the Open Field interest list to receive early access to tickets, plus updates as new productions are announced.

SIGN UP NOW

 

A multi-year vision built together

Open Field is a multi-year initiative made possible through philanthropic support. Your contribution helps bring groundbreaking international opera to Los Angeles while supporting meaningful collaboration with local artists.

Gifts support:

  • Artist residencies and creative development
  • Production and design innovation
  • Accessible performances for new audiences

Access and benefits for supporters

As the initiative unfolds, supporters will be invited closer into the work through ticket discounts, private receptions, artist encounters and behind-the-scenes moments such as dress rehearsals. 

Join the interest list to be among the first to receive access and updates.

SIGN UP NOW

Founding Members

With gratitude to our Founding Members as of May 19, 2026, whose early leadership and vision have helped bring this initiative to life. Each founder has generously committed to support $10,000 annually.

Fariba Ghaffari
Betsy Greenberg
Deborah Irmas
Raulee Marcus
Ronnie Rubin
Abby Sher
Anne-Marie Spataru