Opera Southwest will present a performance of Handel's "Messiah" with the New Mexico Symphonic Chorus, featuring a new Spanish translation. This new version was commissioned by the Contra Costa Bach Society. The concert marks the return of the New Mexico Symphonic Chorus to Opera Southwest, following previous collaborations such as The Pearl Fishers in 2014 and Aida in 2015.

Looking ahead, Opera Southwest plans to lead the chorus in a renewed focus on significant symphonic choral works with orchestra at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

The performance of Messiah will take place on November 22, with Maestro Anthony Barrese serving as Artistic Director and Principal Conductor. Aaron Howe, Opera Southwest's Chorus Master, will also lead the chorus for this production. The soloists performing in Handel’s iconic oratorio will include soprano Cecilia Violetta López, mezzo-soprano Claudia Chapa, tenor Dane Suarez, and baritone Jean Carlos Rodriguez.