Chicago Opera Theater

Mission Statement Chicago Opera Theater engages curious audiences through adventurous opera experiences of new and rarely performed works. We create the future of opera through innovative theatrical productions of new and rarely performed works. We inspire people to explore fundamental human experiences through arts. We build new audiences through intimate performances and by taking opera into the community. We bridge wide and diverse audiences by offering affordable performances. We collaborate with the Chicago community and Long Beach Opera to advance artistic value. We educate future opera lovers through imaginative arts programming in Chicago public schools. History Chicago Opera Theater (COT) is now in its 43rd season and has been a founding resident company at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park since 2002. In its 40-year history, including the 2015 Season, COT staged a total of 123 operas, 63 Chicago premieres and 33 operas by American composers. The company was founded in 1974 by Alan Stone, and evolved to be an innovative, nationally recognized opera company under the guidance of General Director Brian Dickie, who led the company from 2000 to 2012. Andreas Mitisek became COT’s new General Director in June 2012. He is known for his adventurous repertory, visionary leadership, fundraising skills, and innovative audience-building initiatives.