About
Opera Montana
Opera Montana, established in 1978, is a distinguished nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape through the powerful artistry of opera. Committed to fostering appreciation and accessibility, we showcase exceptional performances, nurture emerging talent, and engage diverse audiences. Our legacy of excellence in the performing arts continues to inspire and captivate communities, shaping a vibrant future for opera.
What Drives Us
Our Mission & Vision
Misson Statement:
Opera Montana inspires and creates community and collaboration through world-class opera, musical theater, and educational engagement.
Vision Statement:
Opera Montana will broaden its impact as a locally operated, regionally relevant, and internationally renowned performing arts organization. Building on our belief that opera is for everyone, we will create vibrant and inclusive experiences through song and storytelling that change lives for the better.
Opera Is For Everyone
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Intermountain Opera Bozeman is committed to the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do. This requires our dedication to erase inequalities within our organization and the art we produce. We resolve that our organization will be fully anti-discrimination, embracing all people who have been underrepresented on our stages and within our institution. We will be an opera company that depicts, investigates and celebrates the diverse lives and humanity of people and groups who have suffered discrimination and persecution and do our part to address oppression in the arts that continues to this day.
Our History In Montana
Our Founding
In 1978, MSU voice teacher Verity Bostick's vision captivated New York opera producer Anthony Stivanello and Metropolitan Opera baritone Pablo Elvira, birthing Montana's first opera company in Bozeman. Their inaugural production of Verdi’s "La Traviata," supported by Stivanello's generous donation of sets, costumes, and expertise, and Elvira's artistic direction, garnered attention from prestigious East Coast opera critics.
The Rise of a Tradition
The second season marked a milestone with Rossini’s "The Barber of Seville," featuring Pablo Elvira in the lead and supported by top New York City soloists. Anthony Stivanello’s continued contributions of sets, costumes, and direction underscored the growing prestige and artistic ambition of IOB.
The Ginny Martin Era
A pivotal moment in IOB’s history came when Ginny Martin, a passionate arts benefactor, joined the Board. Her leadership as President and her significant financial and organizational contributions fortified the Association's foundation, enabling it to thrive and expand its mission.
A New Artistic Vision
In 1996, Linda Curtis succeeded Pablo Elvira as Artistic Director, steering IOB towards broader audiences, enhanced artistic quality, and an expanded repertoire. Under her guidance, IOB grew from staging one to three productions per season, marking a period of significant artistic growth.
Expanding Horizons
Jackie Vick’s appointment as Executive Director in 2008 solidified IOB’s two-opera season, introduced a winter musical, and founded the Sustaining Member Society. This era saw strengthened financial stability and expanded programming.
%20(2).jpg)
Michael Sakir becomes Artistic Director
In 2020, conductor Michael Sakir joined the Opera Montana staff as Artistic Director. He previously served as Music Director of Opera Memphis with whom, in addition to conducting nearly two dozen productions, was deeply involved in the company's groundbreaking civic practice programs, community partnerships, and commissioning projects.
Our First General Director
Susan Miller was brought on as Opera Montana's first General Director in January of 2022, with experience as a professional actor and singer as well as over a decade of work with Montana Shakespeare in the Parks as both an actor and administrator.
Growing Staff
Thanks to an organization-changing capactiy building grant from the Murdock Charitable Trust, Genevieve Trygstad-Burke was hired as Opera Montana's first Development Director. Sara Misner joined Operations Manager in July of 2022.
.jpg)
Wheels of Harmony
Opera Montana launched its first annual school tour, Wheels Of Harmony, bringing Indigenous music and culture to mostly rural and Tribal schools across the state.
.png)
Veterans Chorus
After forging meaningful relationships with the local Veteran community in 2022's The Falling and The Rising, Opera Montana formed its first Veterans Chorus.