American Opera Project

The American Opera Project (AOP) is a non-profit organization based in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, with a mission to develop and present new and innovative works of lyric theater, provide resources and opportunities to emerging and established artists, and engage contemporary communities in a transformative operatic experience. Established in 1988 by stage director Grethe Barret Holby, AOP was one of the first arts companies dedicated exclusively to the creation of new operas. AOP's vision is rooted in the belief that each life is an operatic story waiting to be told, and that the act of telling these stories is an operatic experience in itself. The organization aims to serve as a home for artists to learn, experiment, and create, fostering a family of innovators in vocal storytelling. AOP's programming focuses on diversifying the operatic canon by investing in emerging creators and prioritizing the creative process over the final product. Throughout its history, AOP has been recognized for its cutting-edge vocal productions and commitment to producing lyric theater and songs that reflect the diverse stories of its local community, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of New York City. The organization has been known for its multimedia works, interdisciplinary projects, and operas that explore a wide range of themes including Black history, LGBTQ issues, and experimental storytelling. Notable productions include "Savage Winter," "The Echo Drift," "Hagoromo," "Darkling," "The Summer King," "Harriet Tubman: When I Crossed That Line to Freedom," "Paul's Case," "The Stonewall Operas," "Patience & Sarah," and "As One," which has become the most produced contemporary American opera since its premiere. AOP's ongoing programming includes initiatives such as First Chance, an opera development incubator; Composers & the Voice, a free in-house composer and librettist training program; and community-oriented events like Music as the Message, which aim to reimagine how opera can reach 21st-century audiences. Originally named American Opera Projects, the organization was led by Grethe Barret Holby as Artistic Director until 2001, followed by Steven Osgood. Charles Jarden served as Founding Board Member and General Director from 1998 to 2019. In 2019, Matt Gray, who had been AOP's Producing Director since 2003, was promoted to General Director, and Mila Henry was appointed Artistic Director. The organization then underwent a name change to The American Opera Project, reflecting its evolution from a collection of projects to a mission-driven entity focused on defining American Opera. In 2022, Charles Jarden returned as Interim General Director following Matt Gray's departure. As of 2023, AOP is celebrating its 35th anniversary, continuing to represent diverse backgrounds and beliefs and proving American opera to be a vibrant art form that reflects the people and issues of today. AOP is a member of various associations including OPERA America, the Fort Greene Association, the Downtown Brooklyn Arts Alliance, the New York Opera Alliance, and Alliance of Resident Theatres/New York (A.R.T./NY). The organization is recognized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and receives support from a range of generous funding organizations. The American Opera Project's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is integral to its operations and artistic endeavors. The organization believes that fostering a culture of mutual respect is essential for its success and the advancement of opera as an art form that represents the entirety of American society.