1892
On 1892-12-18, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s opera "Iolanta" received its world premiere at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg (double bill with "The Nutcracker").
December 18 — On This Day in Opera
This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on December 18, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.
1920
Birth of German lyric coloratura soprano Rita Streich on 1920-12-18 (born in Barnaul), later celebrated for Mozart, Strauss, and operetta roles.
1926
On 1926-12-18, Leoš Janáček’s opera "The Makropulos Affair" received its world premiere at the National Theatre in Brno.
1949
Death of soprano Zélie de Lussan on 1949-12-18 in London; she had appeared with Beecham’s companies and at Covent Garden, among other engagements.
1967
Death of American operatic soprano Mabel Riegelman on 1967-12-18 in Burlingame, California; she was known for roles including Gretel.
2023
Death of American mezzo-soprano Clara O’Brien on 2023-12-18 (reported as shortly before midnight), a performer and professor associated with UNC Greensboro.