Dallas Opera’s Hart Institute Marks 10 Years with Special Concert

The Dallas Opera’s Hart Institute is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a special Showcase Concert on January 25, 2024, at 3 p.m. This event will take place at the Winspear Opera House and will feature notable alumnae from the Institute’s first decade, including conductors Tiffany Chang, Michelle Di Russo, Tianyi Lu, and Shira Samuels-Shragg. Each will lead the Dallas Opera Orchestra and guest singers in performances of significant operatic selections, highlighting the organization’s rich history.

The concert promises to be a memorable occasion, showcasing a variety of pieces from operas such as L’italiana in Algeri, Moby-Dick, and Turandot. In addition to the music, attendees can expect video retrospectives and personal reflections from distinguished guests. A virtual reunion for all Institute alumnae will follow later that week, further celebrating the program’s impact on the operatic community.

Distinguished Faculty and Leadership

This season’s Hart Institute features a roster of esteemed faculty, including renowned arts administrators Deborah Borda, Serge Dorny, and Deborah Rutter. The artistic consultant for the Dallas Opera, David Lomelí, along with the inaugural Martha R. and Preston A. Peak Fellow, Jingqi Zhu, who is an alumna from the HIWC class of 2023, are also integral to this year’s program.

In a statement, Ian Derrer, the Kern Wildenthal General Director and CEO of the Dallas Opera, reflected on the Hart Institute’s journey: “When the Hart Institute began 10 years ago, we knew it had the potential to create a significant impact. Now we see how this program has made a huge difference in the lives and careers of many talented conductors. We are so proud of our alumnae, and we look forward to this program continuing to make change in this field.”

The Hart Institute has played a pivotal role in nurturing talent within the field of opera. As the organization celebrates this milestone, it underscores its commitment to fostering the next generation of operatic leaders. With notable alumni and a dedicated faculty, the Dallas Opera’s Hart Institute continues to influence the landscape of opera not only in Dallas but also on a broader scale.