Long Beach Opera Returns with Free Family Opera Acquaprofonda (Deep Water) at Aquarium of the Pacific


A heartwarming underwater adventure inspires children and families to protect the ocean

LONG BEACH, Calif. — Long Beach Opera's Education Department, in collaboration with the Aquarium of the Pacific, will present the return of Acquaprofonda (Deep Water) on August 1, 2, 8, and 9, 2026. The free, family-friendly opera offers a 30-minute musical adventure celebrating courage, kindness, and environmental stewardship.

Performances will take place at the Honda Pacific Visions Theater inside the Aquarium of the Pacific at 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day. Admission is free, with reservations recommended but not required. Aquarium admission is not required to attend the performances.

A Story of Courage and Ocean Conservation

Acquaprofonda, meaning "Deep Water" in Italian, follows Serena, a fearless young girl who lives by the sea. When she discovers a mysterious whale suffering from plastic pollution, she joins forces with a wise old sailor to reveal the environmental damage caused by a local factory.

Inspired by Serena's determination, her father ultimately chooses to stand up against the factory owner and protect the ocean, proving that even one courageous voice can make a meaningful difference.

Returning After a Successful U.S. Debut

Long Beach Opera introduced the newly translated English-language production during its American premiere last year. Following its enthusiastic reception, the company is bringing the production back for another season, performed in English with projected supertitles.

"We're thrilled to return to the Aquarium of the Pacific with Acquaprofonda," said Michelle Magaldi, CEO of Long Beach Opera.

"This production gives families an opportunity to talk about our impact on the environment while introducing children to the excitement and beauty of opera."

Interactive Family Activities

Families are invited to enjoy complimentary activities held 30 minutes before and after each performance, including:

Ocean-themed arts and crafts
Photo opportunities
Q&A sessions with the performers
Additional interactive educational activities
Award-Winning Educational Opera

Featuring music by Giovanni Sollima, a libretto by Giancarlo De Cataldo, and an English adaptation by Elle Moody, Acquaprofonda was originally commissioned by Teatro Sociale di Como in collaboration with the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma as part of Italy's Opera Education initiative.

The production later received the prestigious Filippo Sienbaneck Award, recognizing excellence in music education and youth artistic development.

Event Information

Acquaprofonda (Deep Water): A Deep-Sea Opera for Families

Presented by: Long Beach Opera Education

In collaboration with: Aquarium of the Pacific

Dates:

Saturday, August 1, 2026
Sunday, August 2, 2026
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Sunday, August 9, 2026

Performance Times:

12:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m.

Venue:

Honda Pacific Visions Theater
Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802

Admission: Free (Reservations Recommended)

Reservations can be made at LongBeachOpera.org.