After the laid-back vibe of summer, Washington's arts scene comes alive again. The theaters open up, rehearsal spaces buzz with activity, artists return from their summer gigs, and people start planning which shows they'll catch in the coming months.

The curtain's up on a new performing arts season in Washington, and this year feels different—bigger, bolder, and buzzing with the creative energy that only September can bring. Whether you're into opera, ballet, symphonic music, or the thrill of live theater, the District’s cultural calendar is packed with options.

The first opera I performed in was Carmen when I was twelve years old. It was specifically arranged for middle school music students. My music teacher wanted to give me the role of Carmen, but I was way too shy, so I performed the role of Michaela. Georges Bizet’s Carmen (1875) is a fiery masterpiece set in Seville, Spain, telling the story of a free‑spirited woman whose passion and defiance challenge every convention.