A slice of harmony: Pagliacci Pizza and Seattle Opera join forces

Pagliacci Pizza and Seattle Opera have partnered to celebrate the beloved opera "Pagliacci," which is being performed at McCaw Hall through August 17

The collaboration marks a significant moment for both organizations: Pagliacci Pizza is celebrating its 45th anniversary, while Seattle Opera is commemorating its 60th.

Founded in 1979 by Dorene Centioli-McTigue, Pagliacci Pizza has become a staple of Seattle's culinary landscape, serving millions of pizzas made from fresh, hand-tossed dough. The chain has 26 Seattle-area locations and employs 830 people, according to co-owner Matt Galvin.

The restaurant’s name, which means “clowns” in Italian, reflects the founder's family’s love for opera.

"We have a cousin who was an opera singer," Centioli-McTigue said in an interview posted on the pizzeria's website. "We just thought, what more buffoonery than to open a pizza place?”

Galvin addressed the common confusion over how to pronounce the restaurant’s name, noting, “The most frequent question I receive is ‘how do you pronounce the name?’... I’ve heard Pogs, Polly, PAG-lee-ah-chee, and Poly-achi.” He clarified that the correct pronunciation includes a silent G, adding, “But I will tell you… no matter what you call us … we'll never correct you.” Embracing the debate, Galvin laughed while recounting the quirks of the pizzeria’s name.

Seattle Opera, founded in 1963, is one of the leading U.S. opera companies.

It made its mark with the world premiere of Carlisle Floyd’s "Of Mice and Men" in 1970, followed by significant productions including the first fully staged version of "The Who’s Tommy" in 1971.

The partnership celebrates the arts and local cuisine through a series of collaborative events and promotions throughout the summer. Pagliacci Pizza commissioned a special box top for its pizza boxes — designed by local artists Ames Bros — sold through August, featuring information on the pizzeria’s 45th anniversary, details about Seattle Opera's production of “Pagliacci,” and a discount code for tickets to the opera.

But the celebrations come amid challenges for Pagliacci Pizza. The company is currently facing a class-action lawsuit in King County Superior Court, alleging it failed to reimburse delivery drivers for automobile expenses. This legal battle follows a similar lawsuit settled for $3.75 million three years ago.

Co-owner Galvin said the company continues to work on resolving the lawsuit.

"Our greatest asset is our employees," Galvin said. "We pride ourselves on our respect and care for them."

As Pagliacci Pizza navigates legal issues, Seattle Opera is preparing for a pivotal transition. Next month, the opera welcomes new General and Artistic Director James Robinson.

RELATED: New director hopes to hit the right note at Seattle Opera

The change signals a new direction for the opera, which celebrated its 60th anniversary earlier this year with a concert featuring music by renowned composers such as Richard Wagner and Giuseppe Verdi.

"Pagliacci" continues at McCaw Hall through Aug. 17. For tickets, visit the Seattle Opera website.