Scottish Opera

Scottish Opera is Scotland’s national opera company and the largest performing arts organisation in the country. Established in 1962 by Sir Alexander Gibson, the company celebrated its 61st anniversary in the 2023/24 Season. Scottish Opera boasts a diverse repertoire that spans five centuries, featuring both the earliest operas and newly commissioned world premieres. Under the musical direction of Stuart Stratford, Scottish Opera is renowned for its collaborations with world-class singers, creatives, and The Orchestra of Scottish Opera, along with choruses assembled for each production. The company has received numerous accolades, including a South Bank Sky Arts Award, a Scottish Award for New Music, Sunday Herald Culture Awards, a Herald Angel, and a 2020 RPS Award. In 2021, the company presented Sir David McVicar’s new production of Verdi’s "Falstaff" in Glasgow and at the Edinburgh International Festival, marking a return to live audiences. Scottish Opera is dedicated to accessibility and outreach, touring extensively to ensure performances are available to the dispersed population of Scotland. Its innovative Pop-up Opera Roadshow utilizes specially adapted trailers to bring opera to thousands annually, including remote and island communities. The company's Education & Outreach programme, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021, includes the annual Primary Schools Tour, allowing around 9,000 pupils from 120 schools each year to perform alongside professional singers. Inclusivity and affordability are key to Scottish Opera's mission, offering subsidized and free tickets, audio-described performances, and shorter access performances for broader audiences. The company also extends its reach through Opera On Screen productions, which are available online and include works such as Donizetti’s "L’elisir d’amore," Humperdinck’s "Hansel and Gretel," and Mozart’s "Così fan tutte." Scottish Opera is core funded by The Scottish Government and is one of Scotland’s five National Performing Companies (NPC). The company also voluntarily engages in Gender Pay Reporting, demonstrating its commitment to equality and transparency. Throughout its history, Scottish Opera has presented groundbreaking productions and premiered significant works. From its first production of Puccini’s "Madama Butterfly" in 1962, the company has continued to innovate and inspire. Notable moments include performances of Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle, the world premiere of James MacMillan’s "Inés de Castro," and a UK Theatre Award-winning production of "Pelléas and Mélisande" directed by Sir David McVicar. The Orchestra of Scottish Opera, formed in 1980, is integral to the company's success, playing in films and productions across Scotland and beyond. The Board of Scottish Opera oversees the organization, ensuring its continued growth and contribution to Scotland’s cultural landscape. For more information on Scottish Opera's history, current season, and outreach initiatives, interested individuals can explore the company's annual reports and learn more about the board members guiding this prestigious institution.