November 28, 2021

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Dear Friends,

 

As I write this letter, I am still smiling from our recent performance of New in November.  Our flagship festival is now in its 11th year, and we were able to add 4 more new works to our running total of 59 newly composed, culturally relevant, and affordable operas produced and performed in Hartford.  I’m so proud of our staff, and of the singers, directors, conductors, pianists, and crew members who came together to mount this year’s festival.  In truth, I think I might be prouder of this year’s festival than I ever have been in the past because it was so important to come back after having to cancel in 2020 due to the pandemic.  I know I speak for my staff colleagues when I say that our return to the theater after a year away was an emotional and gratifying experience that we know is a precious and miraculous gift. 

 

And now we look forward to more opera: more productions, more innovation, more work to keep new opera in Hartford.  We have been joined in this effort by our newest community partner, Christ Church Cathedral in Hartford.  This beautiful, historic building has just undergone a major renovation to make their space more flexible and accessible, and they consider it an important part of the Cathedral’s mission to support Hartford’s artists.  Hartford Opera Theater couldn’t be more thrilled or grateful to join with Christ Church Cathedral to produce more opera and contribute to Hartford’s already rich cultural landscape.

 

I hope that you will continue to follow Hartford Opera Theater’s website and social media channels, as these are our main avenues to advertise our upcoming shows and events, communicate our fundraising needs, and support our sister organizations in Hartford.  We have many exciting plans for the spring, and will be ready to announce the specifics soon. 

 

As you contemplate your end of the year giving, I hope you will remember Hartford Opera Theater, and tell us with your contribution that you value our work.  Producing our shows, and prioritizing new work (rather than more well known, established operas) is sometimes a difficult road, but one that we believe leads to bringing opera into the twenty-second century.  No donation is too small.  As Stephen Sondheim wrote in his incredible musical Sunday in the Park with George: “Ounce by ounce, putting it together, small amounts, adding up to make a work of art.” We thank you for your consideration, and look forward to welcoming you back to the theater in 2022!

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Lisabeth Miller
Artistic Director

Hartford Opera Theater

www.hartfordoperatheater.com

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