About City Lyric Opera

Mission Statement

City Lyric Opera redefines the way opera is perceived and produced by emphasizing artist-centric programming and collaborative partnerships within our local community to make opera accessible and engaging for every New Yorker.

Positioning Statement

City Lyric Opera believes that artists deserve a welcoming and collaborative environment to rehearse, perform, and grow. We provide artists with a safe space to refine their craft and give audiences an accessible, world-class musical experience

Our History

Founded in the fall of 2016 by Megan Gillis and Kathleen Spencer, City Lyric Opera has emerged as a champion for artistic excellence and creativity in the heart of New York City's cultural landscape. Over the course of eight seasons, City Lyric Opera has proudly curated twelve fully staged productions, providing paid performance opportunities to hundreds of local artists. From captivating main-stage operas to intimate salon concerts, public showcases, and educational workshops, our organization has remained devoted to nurturing artistic expression within a diverse and inclusive community.

Distinguished as one of the nation's few female-led opera companies, City Lyric Opera boasts a 100% female self-identifying leadership team. Embracing a philosophy rooted in inclusivity and collaborative spirit, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where all artists feel empowered to contribute and thrive.

Since it’s inception, City Lyric Opera has championed a fusion of exceptional musicianship and unparalleled audience engagement, offering a transformative operatic experience devoid of judgment or financial constraints. From performances throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, we have continuously pushed the boundaries of traditional opera, redefining its essence and accessibility.

In the 23-24 Season, City Lyric Opera embarked on a groundbreaking transition to an artist-submission-based model for repertoire selection. Under this approach, artists take the helm of their own creative journey, supported by City Lyric Opera's knowledge, support, and resources. This shift amplified CLO’s impact within the community and served as a catalyst for the empowerment and elevation of local talent.

At City Lyric Opera, we firmly believe that empowered artists are the architects of inspiring and empowering art.