National Simulcast

Nearly 15,000 people watched the simulcast on the Washington Monument grounds

Washington National Opera presented its third annual simulcast on Sunday, September 23, 2007.  Broadcast from the Kennedy Center Opera House, the live performance of La Bohème was viewed by a combined estimated audience of 25,000 on the Washington Monument grounds, two local movie theaters, and in 23 states around the country.

The event went off without a hitch, and all technology functioned properly, allowing students and opera lovers across America to enjoy the free broadcast.  "This is a truly exciting day," said General Director Plácido Domingo, who dropped in on an ecstatic crowd at the

Washington Monument after introducing the broadcast from the Opera House stage.  "I am so glad that we are again able to bring live opera to all of you here and, even more exciting this year, to schools and venues all over the country." 

Plácido Domingo greets fans during a surprise visit to the monument grounds

WNO presented its first annual simulcast in fall 2005 with Porgy and Bess, followed by Madama Butterfly the following year.  This year, for the first time, the company also broadcast the performance of La Bohème to 38 universities, colleges, high schools, and public housing facilities across the country.

Photos by Jim Brantley for Washington National Opera