8 Ways to Break a Glass (with an American Opera Singer) is a fast, joyful hour of standup, storytelling, and jaw‑dropping live opera from Berlin‑based American dramatic soprano and Wagner nut Stephanie DePrez. Last year, the show grew so well by word of mouth that multiple performances sold out in the final week, with people coming back for a second round of arias, jokes, and glass‑shattering high notes.
Armed with a 100‑decibel top note and a wicked sense of humour, she structures the show around eight metaphorical “ways to break a glass”: heartbreaks, career disasters, pandemics, and the sheer chaos of trying to be an opera diva in a world that mostly wants playlists and swipe‑right romance. Expect real Wagner‑level vocals, smart, self‑deprecating storytelling about online dating, and a finale that veers joyfully into symphonic metal.
What the critics say
“Steph is immensely talented, effortlessly carrying her one-woman show with the energy of someone who truly loves what they do. She blends fast-paced comedy smoothly with a great selection of songs so that it’s hard to know which you’d rather she did (but she never makes you wait too long for either).”
Broadway World: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
“So what makes a successful opera diva trade the grandiosity of an opera house for a stand-up gig at the Fringe? The pure joy of performance, the thrill of making people laugh and the desire to explore different facets of artistic identity. The essence of DePrez’s performance lies in genuine connection – whether through a soaring aria or a perfectly timed punchline. With the full-body expression of a Valkyrie, she transforms the small room into Valhalla itself, announcing that Brünnhilde has arrived.”
Broadway Baby: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
“This show is a must-see. It’s a cleverly crafted show that balances sublime musical talent with sharp, witty comedy. Steph DePrez is a masterful performer who invites audiences into her world with infectious energy and a powerful voice. Her show is one that you should hunt out and go to see. This is a gem that deserves to be found and celebrated, offering a fresh, modern, and riotously funny take on classical performance.”
Edinburgh Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.3)
What the audiences say
Fringe punters have been just as loud as Steph’s top notes:
“Fabulous! A gem of a show I found out about last minute and I'm so glad I did. It was wonderfully written and paced, moving between arias, anecdotes, science lessons and a bit of heavy metal.”
“I like shows that combine comedy with true skill and I really enjoyed Steph’s storytelling in this. I’ll remember it for a long time.”
“Fantastic, go and see this show. Feels like dinner with a lovely friend.”
“Brilliantly constructed and masterfully executed. A mix of the wittiness of standup, the drama of opera, the narrative of a seasoned story teller and the relatable vulnerability of just being a person. One of the best hours you can spend.”
“I’ve been going to the Fringe for years but this is one of my favourites.”
“We took a shot in the dark while looking at all the shows we could go to. We were craving some opera and Steph DePrez did not disappoint! Honestly such a great find and cannot recommend it enough!!”
“You must see this. It will be one of the best hours you can spend, especially if you are curious about opera.”
“Steph reminds you that Fringe is an extravaganza of amazing talent waiting to be seen.”
“Couldn't always tell if my tears were from laughter or that beautiful voice!”
About Stephanie DePrez
Stephanie DePrez is a dramatic soprano and comedian from the US, now based in Berlin. She has sung as soprano soloist at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall and the Berlin Konzerthaus, and opened for Michelle Wolf, David Cross, Kyla Cobbler, and Rosebud Baker,
If you like your comedy smart, your music world‑class, and your Fringe shows th