Questions & Answers
Everything you might want to know about the Royal Star Opera — what it is, how it’s made, and how to watch and listen.
What is the Royal Star Opera?
The Royal Star Opera of New York is an online opera studio that reimagines the world’s great stories — myths, legends, and classic literature — as original, full-length operas. Each is released free as a video and as a podcast episode.
How often do new operas premiere?
We open new productions on a regular schedule, aiming for roughly one premiere a week. Follow our podcast or video channel, or check the Shows page, to catch each opening.
Is it really free?
Yes — completely free. Every opera streams as a free video and a free podcast episode. There is no paywall, no subscription, and no account required.
How are the operas made? Are they AI-generated?
Each opera is produced by an original computational pipeline we built ourselves. The libretto is adapted with the aid of AI language models; the staging is drawn frame by frame as 2-D vector animation; and the music is composed by an algorithmic orchestra with synthesized singing voices. Importantly, we use no image or video generators — nothing is ‘AI-painted.’ Every frame is rendered by hand-built code.
Are these full-length operas?
Yes. These are complete works — overture, multiple acts, arias, choruses, and a finale — typically around an hour long, not short clips or trailers.
What stories do you adapt?
Our repertoire spans every region and era: ancient epics like the Odyssey and the Ramayana, the great novels of Dickens, Austen, Tolstoy, and Zola, and folk legends from cultures around the world. You can browse by form, region, and era on the Shows page.
Where can I watch or listen?
Premieres are released as a free video series and as an audio podcast you can stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or any app via our RSS feed. See the How to Listen page for all the options.
Do you take requests?
Our programme is mapped out well in advance, but we love hearing which stories you are hoping for. Write to us and we’ll note it for the schedule.
Can I use or share your operas?
Please share links freely — that’s the point. The productions themselves are original works, © The Royal Star Opera of New York; for reuse, licensing, or republication, contact us first. See our Terms of Service for details.
Why are comments disabled?
We keep the site focused on the works themselves. The warmest place to reach us is by email, and we read everything — see the Contact page.
Still curious? Get in touch — we’re happy to help.