New York City Opera

New York City Opera (NYCO), known as "The People's Opera," was established in 1943 by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia with a commitment to making opera accessible to the masses. Over the past seven decades, NYCO has played a pivotal role in New York City's cultural scene, fostering the careers of numerous prominent artists and presenting a diverse repertoire that includes both well-known and unconventional operas, as well as commissions and regional premieres. NYCO's mission has consistently focused on offering affordable ticket prices, promoting American works, performing in English, and supporting emerging American singers. This approach has not only introduced new audiences to opera but has also helped to cultivate a uniquely American opera company of international acclaim. Celebrated artists such as Plácido Domingo, Beverly Sills, and Sherrill Milnes are among the many who began their illustrious careers at NYCO. The company has been a pioneer in the field of inclusion and diversity in opera. NYCO was the first major opera company to cast African-American singers in leading roles, with Todd Duncan in "Pagliacci" (1945) and Camilla Williams in "Madama Butterfly" (1946). It also premiered a work by an African-American composer, William Grant Still's "Troubled Island" (1949), and had an African-American conductor, Everett Lee, lead its orchestra in 1955. After a period of closure, NYCO was revitalized and reopened in January 2016 with a production of "Tosca," the same opera that marked the company's debut in 1944. Since its reopening, NYCO has continued to present outstanding productions, including world premieres, rare works, and a series of productions celebrating LGBTQ+ themes during Pride Month. The company has found a new home at the Rose Theater at Jazz at Lincoln Center, where it continues to engage audiences with innovative programming and educational outreach efforts. NYCO's commitment to opera education extends to New York City's students, aiming to foster a love for the art form in future generations. New York City Opera remains a vital institution in the arts landscape, upholding its historic mission and adapting to the changing times to ensure that opera remains a vibrant and accessible art form for all. Contact Information: New York City Opera 142 W 57th St, 11th Floor New York, NY 10019 Phone: 646.981.1888