Speaking on Business: Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre

About this episode

Derek Miller speaks with Vanessa Ballam about the Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre and its impact on the community through arts education and performances.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre brings opera, musicals, concerts and arts education to northern Utah each summer. Their work supports students, performers, tourism and the local community through meaningful artistic experiences. Associate Artistic Director and Education Director, Vanessa Ballam, joins us with more. Vanessa Ballam: Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre celebrates over three decades of extraordinary storytelling with our vibrant 2026 summer season, running in June and July in Logan, Utah. Founded by Michael Ballam, the festival presents thrilling productions and unforgettable performances. Highlights at the Ellen Eccles Theatre include 1776, featuring Michael Ballam, and The Pirates of Penzance. At the Utah Theatre, don’t miss The Last 5 Years, alongside Scalia/Ginsburg & Trial by Jury — sharp, witty and musically dazzling. From grand operatic moments to intimate musical theatre, our stages offer world-class voices, lush orchestration and striking design. Perfect for families, art lovers and community groups, season tickets and flexible packages make attendance easy. Join us for classes, free concerts and…

People in this episode

Host: Derek Miller

Guest: Vanessa Ballam

Topics covered

• Utah Festival Opera
• musical theatre
• arts education
• community engagement
• performing arts

Keywords

• Utah Festival Opera
• musical theatre
• arts education
• performances
• community
• Logan
• summer season

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre

Books & works: 1776, The Pirates of Penzance, The Last 5 Years, Scalia/Ginsburg, Trial by Jury

Places: northern Utah, Logan, Utah

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