Cedar Rapids Opera

Cedar Rapids Opera, commonly referred to as CROpera, is a professional opera company based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Founded in 1998 by Dr. Daniel Kleinknecht, the company has established itself as one of the two professional opera companies in the state. Over the years, Cedar Rapids Opera has become known for its commitment to presenting between three and five productions each year, including special performances designed for elementary school audiences as part of its educational outreach initiatives. The company's Young Artist Program, launched in 2002, has gained national recognition. This program aims to bolster the opera chorus with talented pre-professional singers while providing these emerging artists with invaluable experience by working alongside seasoned professionals. In 2022, Cedar Rapids Opera further expanded its educational efforts with the introduction of the Lift Every Voice: Artist in Residency Program. This initiative places teaching artists in high schools to mentor and work with underserved students, furthering the organization's mission. The mission of Cedar Rapids Opera is to promote opera as a dynamic and essential American art form. It focuses on nurturing the talents of artists involved in opera and fostering an audience that understands, appreciates, and supports the genre. Under the leadership of Dr. Kleinknecht, the company has achieved significant milestones, including receiving four consecutive National Endowment for the Arts grants, establishing the aforementioned Young Artist Program, and building an endowment fund exceeding $100,000. Dr. Daniel Kleinknecht, the founder and artistic director, has been instrumental in guiding Cedar Rapids Opera to perform a wide range of operatic repertoire. His leadership has earned the company critical acclaim and recognition. Kleinknecht's extensive experience includes conducting various orchestras and ensembles across the United States. He has also been recognized as a Conducting Fellow at prestigious institutions and holds degrees from Oberlin College, Indiana University, and The University of Iowa. In addition to his role at Cedar Rapids Opera, he serves as an associate professor at Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids. The organization is supported by a dedicated staff and a board of directors comprising individuals from diverse professional backgrounds. The board includes David Caves as President, Connor Grask as Secretary, and Scot Brown as Treasurer, among other members who contribute their expertise from various sectors such as law, insurance, academia, finance, and technology. Cedar Rapids Opera encourages community involvement and offers opportunities for volunteer leadership positions, including service on its Board and Committees. The organization maintains an open invitation for interested individuals to contribute to its mission and work within the Cedar Rapids community. For more information about Cedar Rapids Opera, its season schedule, ticketing, or to get involved, individuals can navigate through the company's website or reach out via the provided contact details.