Opera Theater of Pittsburgh

Arts and creative groups are necessary in assisting Pittsburgh to maintain its economic strength. It is the collaboration of all of the cultural arts in technology, healthcare, education that inspire and lead Pittsburghers in a more positive lifestyle.
Opera Theater of Pittsburgh/OTSummerFest has shown itself to step up to such a challenge and give totally its heart and soul to providing opera performances of stellar quality for adults and children in all of Pittsburgh’s diversified neighborhoods and ethnic backgrounds. Whether one is on stage or in the audience, we are all united as beautiful and caring participants of humanity.
I am honored to be a member of the board of directors of Opera Theater of Pittsburgh.
It was Jonathan Eaton, esteemed OT director, with his world class staging of Wagner’s “The Ring of the Nibelungs” with the four operas in three consecutive days that permanently transported me in to the magical world of opera in July 2006. This performance solidified my desire to support the cultural arts and with that to accept being on the board. Subsequently, every year has been a continuation of enlightenment, fulfillment and enjoyment.

I had a wonderful time at Opera Theater SummerFest last year. Not only did they offer exciting operas, they also had extra entertainment such a storyteller or sword demonstration that fit with the theme of the show. Even if you are not normally an opera fan, you should check them out. The shows in the small theater make you feel like you are actually a part of the show.

It has been a joy to be a board member, donor and volunteer for Opera Theater of Pittsburgh. Jonathan Eaton, artistic director, has been a genius at presenting unique
productions throughout the city, in unusual environments. SummerFest 2012 was a huge success. I'm looking forward to SummerFest 2013 for more original Night Caps which kept the audience laughing throughout the production. Since most operas are sung in English they can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

I am a volunteer, board member and donor. And, I enjoy all the aspects associated with my relationship to Opera Theater. The performances are creative, to the point, and just plain wonderful.
This year I have been "behind the scenes" during the preparations for Summerfest, our response to all those who have wanted more opera than just those 4 - 5 performances presented by the large opera company in our area.

Our smaller size is a plus, as an organization we can turn on a dime, make $$$ go further, and can relate and respond to the general public. It was wonderful to have sold-out performances. Our patrons appreciate the creativity and uniqueness of our offerings. This coming year is going to be even better!

As a performer and teacher, one tries to find a way to give back to the greater community, Opera Theater has been the perfect venue with which to do so.
The vision to showcase the best of our local and emerging talent on stage with nationally and internationally recognized artists has been a revelation in every production, Gospel at Colonus and The Ring, to name two, but there are many, many more!
For African American classical musicians, Jonathan Eaton and Opera Theater have been groundbreaking in offering professional opportunities for chorus, small roles, supporting roles, lead roles, directing, conducting, choreography, costuming, and teaching. Opera Theater with it's amazing staff, volunteers and board continues to stay relevant by keeping the arts in the community so it can keep the community in the arts!

I have been a member of the Board of Opera Theater of Pittsburgh for the last decade. I joined on not only because I admire OTP's repertory which is more varied than the standard fare we are accustomed to see here in Pittsburgh, but also because I have a voice in the operation of the organization. This is not true of the other major musical organizations in the city where a board member as a rule has only the opportunity to vote ÿes."

Moreover the recently instituted Operafest offers Pittsburghers (and mee, of course) an opportunity to enjoy such diversified repertory in the summer when good music is in short supply.

Good shows. The cabaret performances were innovative.

The SummerFest was spectacular. The adaptations of the Magic Flute, Carmin and Candide were each amazing. Creative use of space, talent and the music was above anything I have seen in a similar setting. The short NightCap productions were so creative and well done. I really don't know how a small company produced a program of such high quality.

I have seen a number of other productions they have done including an amazing Ring, which I enjoyed more than I did the full versions at the Met and LA.

Also the did a production of a View of the Bridge at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, a few years ago, which was pared with the play. Seeing the opera on one night and the play the next night was a terrific experience.

Truely outstanding company.

I've seen several productions, and the cast / artistic direction always impresses