Opera Parallèle

Opera Parallèle is a contemporary opera company based in San Francisco, founded in 2007 by conductor Nicole Paiement as Ensemble Parallèle. Renowned for its innovative and boundary-pushing productions, the company reimagines opera by blending classical elements with contemporary ideas, often incorporating multimedia, technology, and unconventional staging. Opera Parallèle is committed to presenting works that explore relevant social and cultural themes, challenging traditional operatic norms. The company has garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking performances and dedication to new and lesser-known works. Under the leadership of Paiement and Creative Director Brian Staufenbiel, Opera Parallèle continues to be a significant cultural contributor to the San Francisco arts scene, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists to experiment and present opera in fresh and engaging ways.