El Paso Opera

El Paso Opera is a distinguished cultural institution located in El Paso, Texas, dedicated to presenting opera performances and engaging with the community through the arts. Established initially in 1992 as Opera a la Carte, the organization began by offering excerpts of classical opera to gauge the local interest. The response was overwhelmingly positive, indicating a strong desire for fully-staged, complete operatic productions. This led to the expansion of the organization into a full opera company by 1994. By the turn of the millennium, El Paso Opera had garnered significant support, boasting over 1,000 season subscriptions. The company has made history by being the first opera company in the United States to offer dual supertitle translations in both English and Spanish, catering to the bilingual nature of the region and enhancing accessibility for all audience members. Despite facing financial challenges and the pressures of a fluctuating economy, El Paso Opera has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing high-quality art and entertainment to the region. The company prides itself on its core values, which include artistic integrity, community engagement, education, diversity and inclusion, opportunities for local and emerging talent, accessibility, and fiscal responsibility. The mission of El Paso Opera is to utilize the transformative power of opera to serve as a lasting and valued cultural entity within the local and broader community. Looking to the future, El Paso Opera aims to solidify its role as a valuable member of El Paso’s Arts Community by continuing to offer unique and innovative productions, thereby reaching new audiences and affirming the relevance of the art form. El Paso Opera is led by a dedicated team, including Executive Director Arianne Marcee, Artistic Director Justin Lucero, and a host of other staff members who contribute to the organization's success. The Board of Trustees, presided over by President Chelsea Lamego, along with other officers and trustees, provides governance and strategic direction for the company. The organization also maintains a rich archive of past productions, showcasing its history and evolution over the years. El Paso Opera continues to make a difference in the community, not only through its performances but also through its commitment to community engagement, education, and support for emerging talent. The company encourages community support through donations and has a strong relationship with its audience and patrons, as reflected in its message "You Make a Difference." With a passionate team and supportive community, El Paso Opera is poised to continue its tradition of excellence and innovation in the world of opera for years to come.