FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 16, 2024

“OPERA FOR ALL” AND POP-UP OPERA SCHOOL PERFORMANCES RENEWED FOR ANOTHER SEASON THANKS TO SUPPORT FROM M&T BANK AND THE LAFFEY-MCHUGH FOUNDATION

WILMINGTON, Del. - 2024 promises to be another exciting year for America’s 11th oldest opera company, OperaDelaware, which has been operating since 1945 in the First State. Since the pandemic, OperaDelaware has made significant investments in community engagement by increasing Pop-Up Opera performances statewide, as well as expanding ticket access through the Opera for All program. With renewed funding for Opera for All from M&T Bank aimed at unlocking ticket access for nonprofits,  and renewed support from the Laffey-McHugh Foundation for Pop-Up Opera in K-12 schools, OperaDelaware is transforming opera’s impact in the First State.

M&T Bank’s support for the Opera for All program began with a $10,000 investment in the spring of 2023. Thanks in part to Opera for All, OperaDelaware saw an influx of over 700 first-time attendees for its performances of Verdi’s La traviata at The Grand. Building on this success, M&T Bank has matched their initial investment to coincide with OperaDelaware’s upcoming performances of Puccini’s Turandot this May. Nonprofit employees and volunteers can request tickets at three access levels: $10 off tickets, 50% off tickets, or complimentary tickets for new attendees. 

When claiming complimentary tickets, nonprofit employees and volunteers are asked to fill out a brief intake survey about previous experiences and expectations of the opera. A post-show inquiry is made following the performance so that OperaDelaware can receive input from the newest attendees in addition to those core supporters who have sustained the company since its inception. 

“In OperaDelaware’s work to solicit feedback and input from attendees about expectations and outcomes, the company hopes to continue to lead by listening and serving audiences to create a welcoming environment for all,” says Kerriann Otaño, OperaDelaware Vice President of Engagement. “Providing ticket access is only one piece of the puzzle. The key to community engagement is listening to and responding to feedback that leads to a growing sense of ownership, pride, and belonging.”

To continue an additional vital engagement strategy, OperaDelaware has received renewed investment from The Laffey-McHugh Foundation for Pop-Up Opera performances in schools, building on a successful program begun in 2022/23. After a statewide nomination process that saw 40 nominations from teachers, board members, parents, and students from schools across the state, performances were held at John G. Leach School, Mount Pleasant Elementary School, Townsend Elementary School, Springer Middle School, and Cape Henlopen High School. With renewed funding from The Laffey-McHugh Foundation, OperaDelaware will be able to reach five additional schools from the nominated list this spring. The company is also accepting new nominations for school performances. Nominations can be submitted by anyone, but must include contact information for a school representative. 

Pop-Up Opera offers customizable performances suitable for all age groups and is focused on presenting opera in an approachable, casual environment. With stellar performances sharing opera’s most treasured classics, the OperaDelaware Mobile Opera Stage travels across the state presenting accessible hour-long performances that include engaging trivia, a prize wheel, and a t-shirt cannon. These fun and informal performances also give audiences access to hear from the artists directly. 

“With Pop-Up Opera,” says Otaño, “OperaDelaware has been able to unlock a missing piece to our engagement strategy. Though we are anchored in Wilmington, thanks to our beautiful Riverfront Studios and performances at The Grand, Pop-Up Opera allows us to sing to the whole state and truly live up to our name.”

Link to nominate a school for a Pop-Up Opera performance: Nominate Here
Link to more information on Opera for All Nonprofits: https://www.operade.org/opera-for-all 

 
 

About OperaDelaware: OperaDelaware, now in its 78th season, is a professional non-profit opera company with a reputation for excellence in both opera and arts education. OperaDelaware opens the door to bold, vibrant and creative operatic programming that enriches the community, transforms audiences, and encourages dialogue.

MEDIA RELATIONS

Press contact: For interview requests, please email Kerriann Otaño at kotano@operade.org or call 302-442-7812.

Organizational images: Available for download here.

Advertising inquiries: For advertising and sponsorship information, please contact Jordan Barrett at jbarrett@operade.org.