The event on February 11 is the third annual edition
Mechanics Hall presents Love and Romance: A Night of Italian Opera on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in the Great Hall at Mechanics Hall.
The performance is led by composer, organist, and pianist Leonardo Ciampa, joined by soprano Hannah Shanefield, baritone Michael Meraw and tenor Michael Gonzalez. The evening’s repertoire includes works by Puccini, Mozart, Verdi, Rossini, Mascagni, and Donizetti, including selections from La Bohème, La Traviata, Rigoletto, Don Giovanni and The Elixir of Love.“
Love and Romance offers an intimate opera experience,” said Meghan Montaner, Executive Director of Mechanics Hall. “Whether you’re an opera fan or opera curious, this evening offers exquisite music, extraordinary artists, and the option to enjoy food and drink at a variety of seating options. It’s a great choice for an early Valentine’s Day treat, or just a special evening with friends or family.”
Guests may choose from private sweetheart tables for two, reserved floor seating, or balcony seating. Charcuterie and desserts are available with select ticket packages, and Italian wine will be featured at Mechanics Hall’s full bar throughout the evening. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Event Details
Love and Romance: A Night of Italian Opera
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. | Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Mechanics Hall | 321 Main Street, Worcester, MA
Tickets
Private Table for Two: $150 (includes charcuterie and dessert) Floor Table Reserved Seating: $40
Balcony Seating: $30
Mechanics Hall Members receive a 15% discount
Tickets available at: https://mechanicshall.org/event/love-and-romance-a-night-of-italian-opera/
The Great Hall is on the 3rd floor of Mechanics Hall, located at 321 Main Street, Worcester. The Great Hall is accessible by elevator from the Waldo Street entrance, or by stairs from both the Main Street and Waldo Street entrances.
About the Artists
Leonardo Ciampa is a composer, organist and pianist who has appeared frequently at Mechanics Hall, where he served as composer-in-residence from 2021 to 2023 and as artistic director of the Music for a Great Hall concert series in 2023–24. He is the founding director of the Organ Festival of Worcester and director of music at Our Lady of the Angels in Worcester. An internationally active recitalist, Ciampa has performed throughout the United States and Europe, with frequent appearances in Italy. His compositions include orchestral, choral and organ works commissioned and performed by ensembles in the U.S. and abroad.
Soprano Hannah Shanefield has performed with opera companies and ensembles across New England. Recent roles include Gilda in Rigoletto, Donna Anna in Don Giovanni and Suzel in L’amico Fritz. She has appeared as a soloist with the Horizon Ensemble orchestra and in White Snake Projects’ Sing Out Strong: Environmental Voices concert series. Shanefield is also active as a stage director. She holds a master’s degree in vocal performance from the New England Conservatory.
Baritone Michael Meraw has performed with opera companies and orchestras throughout North America, including Seattle Opera, Montreal Opera, Virginia Opera and the Boston Symphony Orchestra, in repertoire ranging from Monteverdi and Handel, to Webern and Szymanowski. Meraw is on the faculty of the New England Conservatory, where he also serves as artistic director of the Undergraduate Opera Studio. He is a frequent recitalist and guest clinician in the U.S. and abroad.
Tenor Michael González performs regularly in opera, oratorio and recital. He has appeared at the National Opera Center in New York and served as Tenor Soloist in the world premiere of Richard J. Clark’s Te Deum, performed at L’Église Saint-François de Sales in Paris, France. González is lead tenor at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston and performs with companies including Boston Lyric Opera and Odyssey Opera. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in vocal performance from the New England Conservatory.
About Mechanics Hall
Steeped in the rich history of 19th century Worcester, Mechanics Hall is internationally regarded as one of the world’s great concert halls. Regionally, it is a meeting place beloved for the central New England location, its architecture, and the legacy of prominent figures engaged. The world’s most renowned orchestras and performers – including the London Philharmonic, Yo-Yo Ma, Ella Fitzerald, and Linda Ronstadt – have taken the Hall’s stage. Among the many luminaries who have spoken at Mechanics Hall are Charles Dickens, Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglass, and Mark Twain. In addition to serving as a premiere venue and recording site, Mechanics Hall offers inspiring cultural experiences for diverse audiences through a variety of creative initiatives, including free concerts, community events, a youth chorus, and collaborative programs with local colleges and nonprofit organizations.
Mechanics Hall is a nonprofit organization owned and operated by the Worcester County Mechanics Association, est. 1842. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn more at MechanicsHall.org.