Amarillo Opera was founded in April 1988 by Mila Gibson, who was Opera Workshop and Vocal Professor at Amarillo College from 1982-2000. The first production was Puccini’s Madama Butterfly which was produced, directed, costumed, publicized, and the title role performed by Gibson. The production was a huge success and the Founding Board of Directors was established with Dr. Merrill and Catherine Winsett, H.R. And Thelma Fulton and Gibson as the Founding Directors.
BRAVO!, the AO membership support group, was established one year later with 75 members. The Founding BRAVO! President was Dr. Bill Byrd. A strong working relationship with Amarillo College enabled the fledging company to grow artistically, financially, and administratively. The community college continues to provide administrative facilities, rehearsal and performing spaces, support personnel, an artist-in-residence, two accompanists, and a line item budget in excess of $25,000 to assist with production expenses.
In 1995 Amarillo Opera was accepted as a professional member of Opera America. That same year the main stage performances were moved from the 240 seat AC Concert Hall Theater to the 2300 seat Civic Center... |
