Opera Carolina

About Opera Carolina Opera Carolina, established in 1948 and originally known as the Charlotte Opera, is the premier opera company in the Carolinas. It was founded by the Charlotte Music Club and has grown to become a significant cultural institution, annually serving over 65,000 people across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Northern Georgia. The company is headquartered at The Elizabeth Roddey Dowd Opera Center located at 1600 Elizabeth Ave, Charlotte, NC. History The company's origins can be traced back to an announcement in a 1948 newspaper article, which called for auditions to start an opera company in Charlotte. The initiative was led by Mrs. Dorothy Allen and Mrs. Herbert Carson, who were instrumental in fundraising and publicity. The inaugural performance was an English adaptation of Johann Strauss' "Die Fledermaus," presented at the Piedmont Junior High School. Over the years, the company, initially an all-volunteer organization, evolved into a professional entity, presenting a wide range of operas in English. In 1955, the company, then known as the Charlotte Opera Association, moved to the Ovens Auditorium under the leadership of Mary Henderson and experienced significant growth with Henry Janiec as Music Director. Throughout its history, Opera Carolina has been led by a series of distinguished artistic and general directors, including Richard Marshall, Charles Rosekrans, and James Wright. The company has been under the leadership of James Meena since the new millennium, who has overseen regional premieres and the introduction of new American operas. Leadership and Governance Opera Carolina is governed by a 40-member board of directors, comprising professionals, arts advocates, and city leaders. The board works alongside the staff to guide the company's operations and performances. The current Board Chair is Julie Bernard of Deloitte, with Carol Y. Kendrick of Brighthouse Financial as Chair Elect. The board and staff are dedicated to maintaining the company's legacy of excellence and community engagement. Educational and Community Engagement Opera Carolina is committed to educational outreach and community engagement, with programs like the International Lyric Academy, youth and family initiatives, and performances in the community. The company also emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion through its Voices Engaged and Civic Engagement Artists programs. Performances and Seasonal Events Each season, Opera Carolina produces three main stage productions and hosts special events, including the annual Bella Notte and the Opera Carolina Classic & Cup. The 2023/2024 season marks the company's 73rd year of delivering grand opera performances. Support and Involvement Opera Carolina encourages community support through donations and legacy giving programs. The company also offers opportunities for involvement, including auditions for the Opera Carolina Chorus Association and employment opportunities. Contact and Additional Information For more information about Opera Carolina, its upcoming calendar of events, or to get involved, individuals can contact the company at 704.332.7177 or visit their website at eclub.operacarolina.org. Opera Carolina prides itself on being a founding member of Opera America and continues to serve the Greater Charlotte area with its dedication to the arts and community service.