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12. OOTA ABOUT 1 OURS min scaled
Photo by Nate Gates | Cheryl Hickman, Thelma; Brett Polegato, Father Nangle; Ours, 2016

ABOUT

Opera on the Avalon brings opera to the east coast of our country. As Atlantic Canada’s only professional opera company, we focus on creating work from diverse artists and communities that resonate with today’s audiences. OOTA is upending the idea of traditional opera with a commitment to commission new live and digital works, produce contemporary pieces, and reimagine opera for the 21st Century.   Opera on the Avalon was founded in 2009 as an answer to the complicated history of male dominance in our art form. As a women-led organization, OOTA believes in diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible art. We are a disruptor of tradition and have a fierce commitment to experiment, innovate, and take artistic risks. We are cultural instigators who are founded in an artist-centred approach. As we evolve, we will continue to focus on providing opportunities for Young Artists, showcasing dynamic artists in the field, and creating partnerships with the community around us.

OUR MISSION

OOTA is committed to embracing innovation and developing opera for the 21st century by
Delivering outstanding productions of new repertoire that engage our public and propel our genre forward;
Identifying extraordinary artists from diverse communities, both established and emerging, and providing opportunities for them to create their most imaginative and inspired work;
Presenting innovative programming relevant to the multicultural country of Canada that
broadens and diversifies the opera audience.

 

OUR VISION

Opera on the Avalon envisions a community that reflects diverse art-making, where all feel welcome and empowered to participate.

 

OUR VALUES

We believe in the power of the arts and a full creative life for everyone. We believe that art is fundamental to flourishing, inclusive societies. We commit to championing policies and practices of cultural equity that empower a just, inclusive, and equitable landscape. 

Our Team

Cheryl Hickman

General & Artistic Director

Judith Yan

Music Director & Resident Conductor

KEITH ROBERTS

RESIDENT COSTUME DESIGNER

Deborah Jarrell

Executive Assistant & Project Coordinator

Christopher Payne

Marketing & Communications Specialist

Renée Alexander

Special Events Coordinator

Michaela Chiste

Young Artist Program Coordinator

Board of Directors

Kevin Woodbury

Chair

Anna Cook

Vice-Chair

Maria French

Halina Avery

Dr. Doug Angel

Judy Dobbin

Matthew Flynn

Cheryl Hickman

General & Artistic Director

Dr. Delores Mullings

Karina Byrne

Jenny Smith

John Thompson

Geoff Wedgwood

Melanie Jardine