Harrisburg Opera Association Launches First Full Season in More Than 20 Years

• Asia Tabb
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  Asia Tabb is the Host and Producer for WITF’s The Spark.
  
  She began her start in radio when she joined legendary radio/ host producer, Doc Christian. She worked closely with Doc for her role on “The Gospel Express, on WHOV 88.1 FM and was a host for “Unrestricted Praise” at Praise FM.
  
  Previously she was an anchor in Shreveport, Louisiana at KTAL/KMSS. Asia also worked as a Multi-Media Journalist at WHP-TV here in Harrisburg, PA.
  
  Asia got her break into news at KTVO in Ottumwa, Ia. While the 2020 caucuses were gearing up. Asia followed many candidates through their campaign trail from Senator Cory Booker, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, and 46th President of the United States Joe Biden.
  
  Asia was born and raised in Norfolk, Va. She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a major in Communications.
  
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aired; August 12, 2026

The Harrisburg Opera Association is launching its first complete season in more than 20 years, with a lineup that aims to expand beyond traditional opera and eventually become a broader arts festival featuring theater, dance, music, film and visual art. On The Spark, Artistic and Executive Director Tami Swartz will discuss the organization’s renewed direction, its focus on education and philanthropy, and its partnerships with local schools. The season begins with “Opera in the Park — Battle of the Sexes” on August 16 at Italian Lake Park, featuring Broadway, television and film star Rachel York alongside returning guest artists.

The 2026 season also includes a visual arts program being developed as a future therapeutic opportunity for veterans and a world premiere of “The Velveteen Rabbit,” a children’s opera created through a collaboration with the Harrisburg Opera Association, Harrisburg Academy and Silver Academy. The season is dedicated to former HOA President Frances Swartz, who died in May. The Harrisburg Opera Association says its goal is to build on its history while creating more inclusive artistic, educational and community opportunities in Central Pennsylvania. Learn more at the Harrisburg Opera Association.

Listen to the podcast to hear the full conversation.