OPERA America has published its 2025 Annual Field Report, providing valuable insights into the financial health and performance of opera companies across North America. This report is based on data from the fiscal year 2024, gathered through the annual Professional Opera Survey conducted by SMU Data Arts. The findings aim to assist leaders in the opera field in understanding current trends and challenges.
Key Findings on Performance Activity
The report reveals a mixed picture of performance activity during the 2023–24 season. Notable statistics include:
– Distinct titles: 247, a 4 percent increase
– Productions: 449, a 4 percent decrease
– Performances: 1,762, a 2 percent increase
– Venues: 282, a 2 percent increase
– North American premieres: 44, a 7 percent increase
The report also lists the most-produced titles in North America. The top five include:
1. “Amahl and the Night Visitors” by Gian Carlo Menotti
2. “Florencia en el Amazonas” by Daniel Catán
3. “Book of Mountains and Seas” by Huang Ruo
4. “Scalia/Ginsburg” by David Lang
5. “Glory Denied” by Tom Cipullo and William Philpott
In terms of the most-produced classic operas, the list features iconic works such as “La Bohème” and “Carmen,” underscoring a blend of traditional and contemporary repertoire.
Engaging New Audiences
North American opera companies have made significant strides in attracting new audiences. OPERA America’s 2024 study, “Understanding Opera’s New Audiences,” explored the motivations and barriers faced by first-time attendees. Building on this groundwork, the organization plans to release a resource guide titled “Engaging Opera’s New Audiences” in May 2025. This guide will provide actionable strategies aimed at enhancing audience retention.
According to the research, newcomers are more likely to return if they perceive their experience as unique, enjoyable, and value-driven. Elements such as engaging digital content before and after performances and personalized communication are highlighted as essential for fostering loyalty.
Moreover, the study indicates that newcomers who purchase higher-priced tickets show a greater likelihood of returning to future performances. This insight emphasizes the importance of ticket pricing strategies in audience development.
Financial Overview and Future Outlook
Despite entering 2025 with concerns regarding rising operational costs and stagnating revenue, OPERA America concluded the fiscal year with better-than-expected results. The year ended with a positive change in net assets amounting to nearly $450,000. The organization benefited from increased institutional support, including new partnerships with foundations and government entities such as the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.
The Dr. M. Lee Pearce Foundation contributed a significant $500,000 grant to support ongoing research into new audiences and the development of practical resources for opera companies.
In 2024, opera companies relied on a mix of earned and contributed revenue. Earned revenue encompasses box office receipts and other income sources, while contributed revenue includes gifts from individuals and institutions.
As OPERA America moves forward, the focus will be on leveraging these insights and resources to ensure the long-term sustainability and vibrancy of opera in North America.
