Opera in Israel began in 1923 when Russian immigrant Mordechai Golinkin conducted the first Hebrew performance of "La Traviata” in Tel Aviv.  Following important early initiatives including American soprano Edis de Phillipe's establishment of a formal Opera Company, The Israeli Opera was established in 1985.

Approaching its 40th anniversary and led by Music Director Dan Ettinger since 2018, The Israeli Opera has established itself as a center of musical and theatrical quality. The company consistently delivers performances of excellent artistic caliber, while collaborating with leading local and international creative forces and opera houses worldwide. Its productions are known for their innovative staging and contemporary relevance, often addressing themes that resonate with modern Israeli society. Each new production typically runs for an impressive 11 performances, demonstrating both strong public demand and the company's dedication to reaching broader audiences.

The Israeli Opera performs a rich classical repertoire while also championing original Israeli works. Highlights of recent and upcoming commissions include Theodor by Yonatan Cnaan — depicting events from Herzl’s early life and named one of 2023’s best operas by Opera Now; Mothers by David Sebba – reimagining the stories of Genesis from the perspectives of its women; and The Dybbuk by Yosef Bardanashvili, based on S. An-Ski’s iconic play — bringing this cornerstone of Jewish mystical folklore to the operatic stage.

Cultivating Israeli talent is central to the Opera's mission. The Meitar Opera Studio serves as a professional development program for emerging vocal artists, providing advanced training and performance opportunities alongside international soloists. Many graduates perform regularly at The Israeli Opera and grace stages of esteemed opera houses worldwide.

The Israeli Opera actively nurtures new generations of opera enthusiasts through education programs for thousands of students and its Young Opera Club for ages 18-35 boasting nearly 5,000 members. With a strong commitment to inclusion, the Opera's education and community programs serve diverse communities throughout Israel, including dedicated initiatives in Arab towns that promote cultural dialogue through music. Additionally, the Opera in the Community program brings operatic productions to peripheral areas, where local community members perform alongside professionals. The Israeli Opera also presents free open-air performances in Tel Aviv, attended by tens of thousands of spectators.

The Israeli Opera has continuously supported individuals and communities affected since October 2023. The exceptional attendance throughout this challenging period demonstrates the vital importance of cultural institutions during times of hardship. As it looks to the future, The Israeli Opera continues to fulfill its mission of artistic excellence while serving as a healing and unifying cultural force that celebrates Israel's creative spirit and enriches the nation's cultural landscape.

Like the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera is an artistic affiliate of the Kennedy Center. Founded in 1956, WNO boasts a rich legacy of groundbreaking world premieres and new productions, digitally streamed content, and innovative education and community engagement programs. For decades, WNO has promoted diversity, representation, inclusion, and belonging by supporting a wide range of American artists and creators, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all audiences.

Recent artistic highlights feature a new production of Puccini’s unfinished opera Turandot with a world premiere ending by Christopher Tin and Susan Soon He Stanton; a new production of Strauss’ Elektra starring Christine Goerke; the D.C. premiere of Jeanine Tesori and Tazewell Thompson’s Blue, commissioned by Zambello; Terence Blanchard’s Champion, commissioned by O’Leary; and the WNO’s first complete Ring Cycle, directed by Zambello.

WNO is committed to expanding opera’s reach and fostering new generations of artists and audiences. WNO’s Cafritz Young Artists program is one of the most sought-after training residencies for singers and pianists preparing for international careers. Other WNO initiatives include the American Opera Initiative, which has premiered over 50 short new works, the annual Marian Anderson Vocal Award, and the Artist Ambassador program.

WNO’s annual Opera in the Outfield® welcomes a crowd of up to 10,000 people each year to Nats Park baseball stadium for a free screening of a popular WNO production, along with dozens of activities for families and children. WNO education programs include in-person and digital Opera Look-In performances, the WNO Summer Opera Institute for the most talented high school singers in the country, free pre-concert lectures, post-show Q&As after many shows, and the Let’s Go There discussion series.