Opera Ithaca

'''Opera Ithaca is an opera company based in Ithaca, New York, established in 2014. As it approaches its 10th season, the company is recognized for its inaugural production of Bartok's "Bluebeard's Castle." Over the years, Opera Ithaca has expanded its repertoire to include a variety of works, ranging from classics like "Don Giovanni" and "Die Fledermaus" to contemporary pieces such as Kristin Hernner Wyatt's "Il Sogno" and the world premiere of Bonnie Montgomery's "Billy the Kid." Opera Ithaca's commitment to education is evident in its Apprentice Artist Program, which offers emerging singers the opportunity to gain experience by casting them in supporting roles, allowing them to sing in the chorus, understudy principal singers, and perform in concerts and outreach events. The organization's dedication to diversity is reflected in its programming, which includes a mix of classic operas, contemporary works, world premieres, and family-friendly productions. Each season features an opera written by a woman, highlighting the company's effort to champion female composers. The company's leadership includes Artistic Director Ben Robinson, Managing Director Gretchen Van Valen, and Lynn Craver, the Director of the Apprentice Artist Program. The Board of Directors is headed by President Deborah Montgomery, with Andrew Cove serving as Treasurer and Larry Harrington as Secretary, among other members. As a Professional Company Member of OPERA America, Opera Ithaca has a mission to bring professional opera to the Ithaca area and enrich the local arts community. It aims to engage a diverse audience and contribute to the longevity of opera as a living art form through its productions, concerts, lectures, and educational outreach events. Opera Ithaca has received positive reviews from various publications, including Opera Magazine, OperaWire, and the Ithaca Times, with critics noting the company's innovative and lively productions that challenge the traditional boundaries of the genre and attract a new generation of opera enthusiasts. The company's success in producing engaging and thought-provoking works has established it as a significant cultural institution in the region.'''