The music culture of Stara Zagora has deep roots dating back to the mid-19th century, fostering the growth of permanent choirs, orchestras, and music-theater ensembles. The city's cultural scene flourished with the establishment of the Music Association “Kaval” in 1897, setting the stage for a vibrant musical tradition.

In 1925, the premiere of Maestro Atanasov's opera “Gergana” marked a significant cultural milestone, leading to the establishment of the first opera outside the capital of Bulgaria. This paved the way for subsequent performances such as “Il Trovatore” and “Il Barbiere di Siviglia,” enriching the city's cultural offerings.

The Stara Zagora Opera expanded its influence by creating the Regional Opera in 1928, extending performances to Burgas, Tarnovo, and Plovdiv. Productions like “La Traviata” showcased the troupe's talents, earning it a reputation as a cultural hub.

Renamed the Stara Zagora Municipal Opera in 1934, the troupe, under director Dimitar Hristov, continued to excel with premieres of works like “Les pecheurs de perles.” The Opera's prominence led to the construction of a modern opera building in 1971, elevating its technical capabilities and attracting diverse performances.

Despite challenges like a devastating fire in 1991, the Opera persevered, relocating temporarily until the restored building's reopening in 2010. Today, the Stara Zagora State Opera remains a bastion of cultural excellence, showcasing opera, operetta, ballet, and symphonic concerts. Its legacy is intertwined with renowned opera singers like Anna Tomowa-Sintow and Vesselina Kasarova, reflecting a century-long commitment to musical brilliance.