Opera in the park

Many people think that opera is only performed in formal settings like a theater or concert hall. But Nevada Opera will demonstrate that opera can be sung anywhere, and you don’t have to wear a tuxedo to attend a performance. The company presents its second annual Artown event, Opera in Blue Jeans, this weekend. Several singers and a chorus will perform selections from popular operas, operettas and Broadway musicals wearing, you guessed it, blue jeans. “It’s very casual, and people should come dressed casually,” says William Russell, executive director of Nevada Opera. The free performances begin at 7 p.m. July 15 at Hawkins Amphitheater, 6000 Bartley Ranch Road, and at 7 p.m. July 16 at Wingfield Park, First Street and Arlington Avenue. Russell suggests people arrive early because seating should fill up quickly. Call 786-4046.