Arizona Opera

Arizona Opera is a major regional opera company presenting performances in both Phoenix and Tucson. Founded in 1971, it has grown into a cornerstone of the Southwestern cultural landscape, offering a diverse repertoire from classic works to contemporary American opera. The company is renowned for its artistic excellence, innovative productions, and deep commitment to statewide education and community programs.

History

The organization was originally established in 1971 as the **Tucson Opera Company** under the leadership of founding General Director **James P. Sullivan**. Its early seasons featured performances at the **Tucson Convention Center** and other local venues, quickly establishing a dedicated audience. In 1976, the company expanded its reach by presenting performances in Phoenix, leading to a renaming as **Arizona Opera** in 1983 to reflect its statewide mission. A significant chapter began with the tenure of General Director **Glynn Ross**, formerly of the **Seattle Opera**, who championed ambitious productions and expanded the company's artistic profile. Subsequent leadership, including **David Speers** and **Joel Revzen**, navigated financial challenges and artistic growth, solidifying its dual-city presence. The company's administrative and artistic headquarters were later consolidated in Phoenix, while maintaining a robust performance schedule in Tucson.

Productions and repertoire

The company's season typically includes four to five mainstage productions, balancing beloved staples of the **Italian**, **German**, and **French** repertoires with modern and American works. Core productions have included classics like **Verdi's** *La traviata*, **Puccini's** *Madama Butterfly*, and **Mozart's** *The Marriage of Figaro*. A strong commitment to **English-language** and contemporary works is evident in productions such as **Heggie's** *Dead Man Walking*, **Puts's** *Silent Night*, and **Tesori** and **Thompson's** *Blue*. The company also presents concert performances, **semi-staged works**, and has collaborated with institutions like the **Phoenix Symphony** and the **Musica Nova** ensemble.

Education and community engagement

Educational outreach is a central pillar, primarily delivered through the **Arizona Opera Touring Ensemble**, which brings abbreviated, English-language productions to schools and communities across **Arizona**. Signature programs include **OperaTunity** for student matinees and the **Storytime Opera** series for young children. The company fosters future artists through the **Arizona Opera Marion Roose Pullin Studio**, a prestigious young artist program named for a major benefactor. Community initiatives like free **Opera in the Park** concerts in **Phoenix's** **Steele Indian School Park** and pre-performance lectures known as **Opera Insights** demystify the art form. Partnerships with organizations such as the **Arizona Commission on the Arts** and local school districts extend its educational impact statewide.

Leadership and venues

The company's artistic direction has been shaped by leaders including former General Director **Scott Altman** and current General Director **Joseph Specter**. The principal performance venue in Phoenix is the **Phoenix Symphony Hall**, located within the **Phoenix Convention Center**. In Tucson, performances are held at the **Tucson Music Hall**, part of the **Tucson Convention Center** complex. The company's administrative and production home is the **Arizona Opera Center**, a facility in Phoenix that houses rehearsal spaces, costume shops, and administrative offices. This multi-venue model allows it to serve diverse audiences across the state's two largest metropolitan areas effectively.

Recognition and impact

The organization has received critical acclaim for its artistic productions and is a respected member of **Opera America**, the national service organization. Its commitment to new work has been recognized through grants from entities like the **National Endowment for the Arts**. The company plays a vital economic and cultural role within the **Arizona** arts ecosystem, collaborating with entities like **Ballet Arizona** and the **Arizona Theatre Company**. By commissioning and performing works by living composers such as **Kaminsky**, **Campbell**, and **Gordon**, it contributes actively to the evolution of **American opera**. Its statewide educational programs introduce thousands of students annually to **classical music** and theatrical storytelling, ensuring the art form's vitality for future generations. Category:Opera companies in the United States Category:Musical groups from Arizona Category:Arts organizations based in Arizona Category:Organizations based in Phoenix, Arizona Category:1971 establishments in Arizona