Opera Carolina facts for kids
Opera Carolina logo
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| Predecessor | Charlotte Opera Association |
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| Established | 1948 |
| Merger of | North Carolina Opera (1986) |
| Type | Non-profit |
| Location | |
| Services | Professional opera company |
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Membership
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Opera America, AFRP |
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General Director
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Dr. Shantè Williams |
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Artistic Director & Deputy General Director
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Claudio Ferri |
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Music Director & Principal Conductor
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Stefano Vignati |
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Artistic & Programs planning manager
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Gail Garvin |
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Budget
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$2.9 million |
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Staff
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8 |
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Volunteers
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The Opera Carolina Chorus, Opera Guild of Charlotte, Bravo! Young Professionals, Supernumeraries, and others |
Opera Carolina is a professional opera company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It brings exciting opera performances to the stage. This company helps people enjoy and learn about opera music.
Contents
What is Opera Carolina?
Opera Carolina is a group of talented people who perform operas. An opera is a play where the story is told mostly through singing. It often includes beautiful costumes, sets, and an orchestra.
How it Started
The company began in 1948. It was first known as the Charlotte Opera Association. The Charlotte Music Club helped to create it. In 1986, it joined with the North Carolina Opera. After this, it became known as Opera Carolina. This merger combined their main shows and educational programs.
Who Leads the Company?
Opera Carolina has important leaders who guide its work. As of July 1, 2024, Dr. Shantè Williams became the new General Director. She helps manage the entire company. Stefano Vignati was appointed Music Director and Principal Conductor in May 2025. He leads the music and orchestra. Claudio Ferri is the Artistic Director and Deputy General Director. He helps plan the creative side of the performances.
Performances and Support
Opera Carolina is a member of Opera America. This is a group that supports opera companies across the country. The company also gets help from other organizations. These include the Arts & Science Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. The North Carolina Arts Council also provides support.
Where They Perform
Opera Carolina puts on three main shows each season. These performances happen at the Belk Theater. This theater is part of the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. The shows feature the Opera Carolina Chorus. They also perform with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. The season usually starts in October and ends in mid-April.
Special Concerts
The company also used to present an annual concert. This concert was called Art • Poetry • Music. It took place at the Knight Theater.
Staying Strong
Opera Carolina has managed to stay financially stable. This was true even during tough economic times. Many other opera companies faced challenges. The company made smart choices to keep going.
Smart Choices for Stability
- They stopped a concert series called Love Notes.
- They reduced their main season to three productions.
- They lowered their staff numbers.
- They became very careful with production costs.
- They also received strong support from businesses and private donors.
Performing During Challenges
Opera Carolina was one of the first arts groups to perform live again. This happened after many places closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They found ways to bring music to people safely.
