Portland Opera

About Portland Opera Portland Opera is a renowned cultural institution that has been a cornerstone of the performing arts scene in the Pacific Northwest since its establishment in 1964. With a mission to gather and inspire audiences, artists, and collaborators, Portland Opera creates shared experiences that not only enliven but also connect individuals, enhancing the cultural landscape of the region. The company has a rich history of presenting a diverse range of operatic works, from classic masterpieces to contemporary creations, and is committed to fostering inclusivity and confronting issues such as white supremacy, patriarchy, and exclusion. This commitment is reflected in the development of a Cultural Equity Plan and an accountability action statement that honors the Indigenous peoples of the Portland Metro area. Portland Opera's story began in the 1800s when comic opera performances were enjoyed in various local theaters. Over the years, the city's operatic life flourished with the arrival of touring opera companies and the establishment of local opera groups. A significant milestone was the free production of "Aida" by the Portland Civic Opera Association in 1950. The official establishment of the Portland Opera Association in 1964 marked the beginning of a new era for opera in Portland. The inaugural season featured performances of Johann Strauss II's "Die Fledermaus" and Puccini's "La Bohème." The company has since become known for its world premieres, such as Bernard Herrmann's "Wuthering Heights" and Ernst Krenek's "Life of Orestes," as well as American and West Coast premieres of works by composers like Philip Glass and Reynaldo Hahn. Portland Opera has been led by several General Directors over the years, including Henry Holt, Herbert Weiskopf, Stefan Minde, Robert Bailey, Christopher Mattaliano, and currently Sue Dixon. The company has also made commercial recordings, notably of Philip Glass operas. Today, Portland Opera continues to engage with the community through performances in various venues, including the Keller Auditorium, the Newmark Theatre, and the Gregory K. and Mary Chomenko Hinckley Studio Theatre at The Hampton Opera Center. The company also reaches audiences through its Opera a la Cart performances in parks and festivals. As Portland Opera looks to the future, it remains dedicated to sharing the transformative power of opera with new generations, inviting the public to be part of its ongoing narrative and to explore its repertory. For more information on Portland Opera's history, strategic plan, or to provide feedback, individuals are encouraged to visit the company's website or contact them directly.