Gus Stuhlreyer, Virginia Opera's general director, said the company's attempt to respect the wishes of its conservative patrons resulted in this season's budget surplus.

"In looking at patron responses to a recent survey, we picked up on two important and recurring themes. First, our audiences don't want to see very many modernized operas. Second, they want us to stage more productions they haven't yet seen. We listened, and last season presented our four operas in more traditional settings."

Three performances of the company's Marriage of Figaro sold out last season.

Six additional Virginia Opera productions have also been scheduled between 2007 and 2009, with titles and casting information yet to be announced.