Opera Grand Rapids

About Opera Grand Rapids Opera Grand Rapids stands as the premier professional opera company in Michigan, with a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1967. Founded by a passionate group of opera enthusiasts in Grand Rapids, the organization has since flourished into a cultural cornerstone for the West Michigan community. With a mission to foster and fulfill the demand for high-quality, live opera, Opera Grand Rapids has been bringing the powerful and moving experience of opera to audiences for over five decades. The company's productions are celebrated for their creativity and excellence, offering a unique blend of music, vocal athleticism, drama, and emotionally compelling storytelling. Opera Grand Rapids has a tradition of producing and presenting its shows locally, involving some of the world's most talented artists, stage directors, conductors, choreographers, set designers, and costume designers. These productions are further enriched by collaborations with the regional Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra and the Opera Grand Rapids Chorus and Children's Chorus. The Betty Van Andel Opera Center, completed in 2010, is the home of Opera Grand Rapids and holds the distinction of being the Nation's first LEED Certified opera production facility. The Opera Center is not only a hub for creating opera productions, coordinating costumes, music, and staging but also houses the administrative offices, costume shop, meeting spaces, and vocal suites. The facility is also available for rent for special events, including weddings and concerts. One of the highlights of Opera Grand Rapids' educational initiatives is the prestigious VanderLaan Prize, one of the nation's largest national vocal competitions with a purse of $25,000. This competition provides an invaluable platform for college-level voice students to showcase their talents, compete for cash prizes, and receive feedback from esteemed opera professionals. Opera Grand Rapids is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that its programming and artists reflect the organization's dedication to these values. The company aims to elevate important stories and artists, making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of West Michigan and beyond. As Opera Grand Rapids celebrates over 50 years of operatic excellence, it continues to honor the bold vision of its founders by being the modern bearers of classical standards and modern ingenuity. The organization invites the community to support its endeavors to ensure the artistic excellence of opera in West Michigan for the next 50 years and beyond.