Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL) is a distinguished American opera company based in St. Louis, Missouri, known for its spring festival season featuring inventive new productions. Established in 1976, OTSL has grown to become a significant cultural institution with both local impact and global resonance. The company is renowned for its commitment to presenting operas sung in English, accompanied by the Grammy Award-winning St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, and for its tradition of promoting the works of living American librettists and composers. Performances are held at the intimate Loretto-Hilton Center at Webster University, where audiences can enjoy picnics and cocktails in the surrounding lush gardens. ===Mission & History=== OTSL was founded with a mission to shape a vibrant future for opera by connecting, inspiring, and entertaining communities through the art form's power and beauty. The company aims to foster the next generation of diverse artists, artisans, and administrators, ensuring opera remains accessible and inclusive through innovative storytelling. The inaugural season in 1976 started modestly with a budget of $135,000 and an 11-performance season. Despite initial uncertainty, the company's first production, Donizetti's "Don Pasquale," was a resounding success, leading to sold-out houses by the end of the three-week season. Over the years, OTSL has presented 37 world premieres, a testament to its dedication to new work. The company's reputation for excellence was bolstered by positive reviews from esteemed critics such as Andrew Porter of The New Yorker and Alan Rich, who regarded OTSL as one of the "true jewels of the operatic firmament." ===Artistic Development and Community Engagement=== OTSL's commitment to nurturing talent is evident through its Young Artist Programs, which receive over 1,000 applications annually, accepting fewer than 40. The company also invests in backstage talent through initiatives such as the Emerson Behind the Curtain Program and the Larry & Jinny Browning Technical Fellowships. Many OTSL alumni have gone on to perform at the Metropolitan Opera and other prestigious venues. The company's civic impact extends beyond the stage through year-round education and community engagement programs, partnerships with local businesses and institutions, and contributions to the regional economy. OTSL's values of excellence, approachability, diversity, innovation, fiscal responsibility, and fun are reflected in all its endeavors. ===Leadership and Vision=== OTSL has benefited from consistent and visionary leadership, with only four general directors since its founding: Richard Gaddes (1976-1985), Charles MacKay (1985-2008), Timothy O’Leary (2008-2018), and Andrew Jorgensen (2018-present). Artistic leadership has also played a crucial role, with Colin Graham (1985-2007) as the first Artistic Director, followed by James Robinson (2009-present), alongside other notable figures such as Patricia Racette and Daniela Candillari. ===Legacy and Future=== As a cultural destination, OTSL attracts audiences from all 50 states and over 17 countries, generating significant indirect revenue for the St. Louis region. The company's legacy of innovation and its dedication to the art form have earned it accolades from critics and audiences alike. Opera Theatre of Saint Louis continues to champion the evolution of opera, ensuring its relevance and accessibility for future generations. For those interested in joining the team, learning more about the company's financials, or meeting the staff, OTSL welcomes engagement and support from the community.