Opera Conference 2007: Opera de las Americas

Opera is relatively new to the Americas. South America’s Teatro Colon, celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2007, is among the oldest opera houses in the hemisphere. In the United States, over 70 percent of the opera companies performing today were established after 1960. The Canadian Opera Company, the oldest opera company in Canada, was founded in 1950. Indeed, until the second half of the 20th century, opera was largely an imported art form.

After World War II, growing cities began to identify themselves through cultural institutions. Thanks to the determination of entrepreneurial leaders, the opera industry grew, along with a network of conservatories and singer training programs. The emergence of acclaimed singers from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and South America was followed by a growing canon of operas by native-born composers. At the turn of the 21st century, opera can be said to be thriving in the Americas.

In the 21st century, our understanding of a modern city is being redefined by Miami — an international cultural center that unites the hemisphere. Opera Conference 2007 will celebrate this exciting cultural landscape and explore its implications.

We look forward to seeing you in Miami!

Charles MacKay
Chairman
OPERA America Board of Directors

Robert Heuer
General Director and CEO
Florida Grand Opera

Marc A. Scorca
President and CEO
OPERA America

OPERA America leads and serves the entire North American opera community, supporting the creation, presentation, and enjoyment of opera. Artistic services help opera companies and creative and performing artists to improve the quality of productions and increase the creation and presentation of North American works. Information, technical, and administrative services to opera companies reflect the need for strengthened leadership among staff, trustees, and volunteers. Education, audience development, and community services are designed to enhance all forms of opera enjoyment