About Us

Mission Statement

Open Opera brings free, professional opera to Bay Area parks and uses public space to build community through the arts.

Founded in 2008 by:

Olivia Stapp and Jonathan Khuner Olivia Stapp, Co-Founder/Artistic Director
(Shown with conductor Jonathan Khuner)
Ellen St Thomas Ellen St. Thomas, Co-Founder/Executive Director
Elizabeth Baker Elizabeth Baker, Co-Founder/Creative Director

 

Read about us in San Francisco Classical Voice.

 

 

Testimonials

"I’ve never seen an opera before, never thought I would, and now I can’t wait for the next one. "

- Audience member

 

"This is one of the greatest casts I’ve ever worked with!"

- Figaro singer

 

"I don’t mean to boast, but I travel the world to watch opera and have seen Figaro countless times. This production was among the best two or three of my life!"

- Audience member

"What a great idea - I wish more people would organize events like this."

- Nick, Alameda

 

"I love that it's open air and I can bathe in the sun while enjoying classical music. It doesn't get much better!"

- Cecilia, Berkeley

 

"Thank you for all the hard work you put into these events! You guys are great!!"

- Melanie, Oakland