Our Mission

Boston Summer Opera is joyfully building a summertime operatic hub for musicians and audiences alike, filling a unique space in the Commonwealth’s musical landscape. We are committed to producing high-quality performances that uplift local emerging artists while making opera accessible, engaging, and community-centered. Our mission is to celebrate Boston’s flourishing musical community, foster deep engagement with diverse audiences, and ensure that opera can be enjoyed by everyone in the city year-round, barrier-free.

We are run by young artists for young artists.

Our Values

Community

The heart of Boston Summer Opera is a vibrant, welcoming community of young artists who lift one another up both on and off stage. We believe that this sense of belonging is what allows great art to flourish.

Collaboration

We view collaboration as essential to artistic and personal growth. Boston Summer Opera encourages our artists to explore new aspects of their creativity, both onstage and behind the scenes. Every voice, from cast to crew, is valued and contributes meaningfully to our shared success.

Inclusivity

We recognize the opera industry’s long history of inequity and actively work to change it. We avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes and reimagine classics in ways that reflect the values and diversity of today’s world. We work to build safe and affirming spaces, where LGBTQ+ and BIPOC artists and audience members alike feel welcomed and supported. For us, inclusivity means fostering belonging, encouragement, and mutual respect at every level of our organization.

Access & Opportunity

We break down barriers that prevent both artists and audiences from engaging with opera. Our performances are affordable or free, rehearsals are educational and supportive, and our young artists never pay to participate. We provide valuable opportunities for young artists to gain vital performance experience, professional training, and mentorship, while giving audiences the chance to experience opera in approachable, welcoming spaces.

Musical Excellence

We perform the greatest works of the operatic canon at the highest possible caliber. Boston Summer Opera strives to help all creative participants be the best version of themselves, on and off stage. As our artists grow as musicians, they grow as people.

We are proud to participate in Mass Cultural Council's Card to Culture program in collaboration with the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Department of Public Health's WIC Nutrition Program, the Massachusetts Health Connector, and hundreds of organizations by making cultural programming accessible to those for whom cost is a participation barrier.  

EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders receive 100% free admission to all Boston Summer Opera events, whether you get your ticket(s) online or in person. This includes mainstage opera performances and all concerts. We do not require photo IDS, nor do we require EBT, WIC, or ConnectorCare cards to receive this discount. See the complete list of participating organizations offering EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare discounts.