Opera Quad Cities

==Opera Quad Cities== '''Opera Quad Cities''' (OQC) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting classical and operatic singing in the Quad Cities area, with a particular focus on showcasing local artists. Established in September 2001, OQC was founded to fill a gap in the region's performing arts scene and to complement the offerings of other local institutions such as the Quad City Symphony Orchestra, Ballet Quad Cities, Genesius Guild, Quad City Music Guild, Playcrafters, Chamber Music Quad Cities, and Circa 21 Dinner Theatre Playhouse. ===Mission=== The mission of Opera Quad Cities is to foster the growth of classical and operatic singing in the Quad Cities region, emphasizing the involvement of local talent in its productions. ===History=== Opera Quad Cities was created in response to a recognized need for a formal, professional organization that could present opera and other artistic singing opportunities, thereby enhancing the existing efforts of various local performing arts organizations. The initiative also aimed to support local singers and cater to audiences who previously had to travel outside the Quad Cities for opera performances. Over the years, OQC has presented a variety of projects and performances, including fully staged productions of major operatic works by composers such as Mozart, Puccini, Bizet, Verdi, and Menotti. The repertoire has ranged from classics like ''The Magic Flute'' and ''La Boheme'' to children's operas such as ''The Little Sweep'' and ''The Pied Piper''. In addition to full-scale productions, OQC has organized Opera Highlights Concerts with orchestra, a Young Artist Competition, Vocal Valentine Celebrations, and educational events for local civic organizations aimed at making opera more accessible and demystifying the art form. OQC has consistently worked to support local professional singers by providing them with expressive outlets and opportunities for artistic growth. The organization also encourages professional singers who have left the area to pursue their careers in larger markets to return and participate in local productions. Collaborations with artists from across the United States have been instrumental in achieving the highest quality productions within the constraints of local resources. ===Venues and Collaborations=== Performances by Opera Quad Cities have taken place in various venues across the region, including the Adler Theatre, St. Ambrose University, Augustana College, The Capitol Theatre, The Figge Museum of Art, The Davenport Public Library, The Moline Public Library, and local public schools. In an effort to optimize resources and avoid unnecessary expenses, OQC has entered into a consortium with Augustana College and Genesius Guild. This collaboration aims to make performances more affordable and efficient. ===Governance and Community Involvement=== Opera Quad Cities is governed by a local volunteer Board of Directors, which includes college and university voice instructors, business professionals, and experienced theatre artists. The organization encourages community involvement and welcomes volunteers to support its work through a wide range of tasks and activities. A recent highlight from the organization's activities includes the June 2023 production of 'Don Giovanni', with a cast featured in a photograph by Peter Liu. ==External Links== *[http://www.operaqc.org Official website of Opera Quad Cities]