DALLAS OPERA

Opera is a startingly powerful vehicle for telling stories, and it is our responsibility to ensure that the beauty and wonder of opera is accessible to all. We aim to serve and grow our audience and base of support through high-caliber artistic works that transcend historical, linguistic, and cultural barriers. We strive to dismantle needless stereotypes in order to introduce opera to new audiences and the next generation.

In addition to the magnificent mainstage productions, TDO provides myriad opportunities “beyond the stage” that create access points to the art form that meet potential audience members where they are. From performances in the community to live simulcasts in large public spaces to the company’s comprehensive youth education programs, TDO offers accessible opera experiences in casual and unexpected settings. These opportunities enable TDO to engage potential patrons and supporters in a way that is fun and comfortable for them. In this way, we can break down stereotypes that opera is not for everyone.

The Dallas Opera’s executive and administrative staff, artists, and supporters bring endless passion, expertise, and financial sustainability to the mission of making opera accessible to current and future audience members. In an increasingly technology-driven world, digital marketing, fundraising, and content become essential capabilities. In addition to offering the highest-quality productions and singers, TDO is likewise committed to staying on the cutting edge of digital opportunities to engage audiences and donors. The company also invests significant resources in its youth education programs, which reach more than 24,000 students and teachers each year and make great strides in introducing future generations to the art form.

The Dallas Opera continues to provide the community with exceptional programming in and beyond the Winspear Opera House. By offering a balance of traditional, reimagined, and world premiere works, TDO maintains a stellar national and international reputation for artistic excellence. TDO also continues to innovate with ground-breaking initiatives such as the Hart Institute for Women Conductors. Having just celebrated its fifth annual residency, the program has become the gold standard for the advancement of women conductors around the world. TDO’s education programs continue to gain traction as the company works with partner organizations such as Dallas Afterschool and Big Thought to reach more underserved communities.

The next evolution of The Dallas Opera includes an increase in high-quality digital content and a focus on serving the local community. In the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, TDO is committed to engaging supporters and new audiences, especially those who are home-bound, with content and performances guaranteed to entertain and encourage through these trying times. TDO looks forward to the 2020/2021 season, which includes the highly-anticipated world premiere of The Diving Bell and the Butterfly. Based on the novel by Jean-Dominique Bauby, this work explores the inner musings of Bauby, who was struck down with “locked-in syndrome” following a massive stroke. Bauby learned he could communicate by blinking his left eye, and proceeded to transcribe this witty, tragic, and uplifting story through those blinks. This work reminds us to have courage, resilience, and humor through even the most bleak of times. Also featured in the 2020/2021 season: Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, Wagner’s Lohengrin, Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice, and Puccini’s timeless Tosca.