AboutOpera Parallèle
OurMission
Opera Parallèle merges tradition with innovation to re-invent opera for our modern world. We are committed to the highest artistic standards in our productions. We foster an inclusive and creative environment that values curiosity and innovation. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We embrace communication, respect and are accountable for our actions.
We believe in the power of music, the importance of storytelling, and the ability of art to ignite awareness.
Opera is for everyone.
AboutOpera Parallèle
Opera Parallèle is deeply committed to presenting works that explore relevant social and cultural themes. Its productions often challenge traditional operatic norms by incorporating multimedia elements, technology, and unconventional staging. By blending classical opera with contemporary ideas, the company has garnered a reputation for pushing artistic boundaries and fostering creativity within opera.
Throughout its history, Opera Parallèle has garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking and artistically rich performances. The company has been a champion of new and lesser-known works, shedding light on pieces that might not receive mainstream attention. This dedication to artistic exploration and collaboration has made Opera Parallèle a significant cultural contributor to the vibrant San Francisco arts scene.
As Opera Parallèle continues to evolve, it remains a vital platform for both established and emerging artists to experiment with and present opera in fresh and engaging ways, solidifying its position as a dynamic and influential force in the world of contemporary opera.
…demonstrated yet again why this company, led by Artistic Director and Conductor Nicole Paiement along with Creative Director Brian Staufenbiel, has quickly become one of the Bay Area’s most indispensable artistic assets.
“…focused on developing and performing contemporary opera, designed to challenge the medium’s time-worn traditions. Opera Parallèle, is to be direct, cool.”
OurStaff

Nicole Paiement
General & Artistic Director, and Conductor

Ruth Nott
Managing Director

Brian Staufenbiel
Creative Director

Daniel Harvey
Artistic Producer & Community Director, Assistant to the General & Artistic Director

Francis Aviani
Marketing Director

Phil Lowery
Production Director

Jacques Desjardins
Artistic Administrator

Brett Metzger
Finance Manager

Michael Mohammed
Scholar in Residence

Muskan Parashar
Development Associate

Jocelyn Shratter
Marketing Associate

Jay Cruz
Marketing Assistant

Keisuke Nakagoshi
Resident Pianist

Jaymes Kirksey
Guest Conductor

Jon Finck
Press Consultant

Bradley Kynard
EDI Project Team Member

Tony Shayne
EDI Project Team Member
OurHonorary Board

Terence Blanchard

Ruth A. Felt

John Holiday

Philip Glass

Frederica von Stade

Jake Heggie
Board ofDirectors
- Jerome C. Roth, Chair
- Peggy Otum, Vice Chair
- Jane Hartley, Treasurer
- Clifford (Kip) Cranna
- Dr. Melinda Luisa de Jesús
- Marylene Delbourg-Delphis
- Louise Fox
- Marcia Lazer
- Steven Lei
- Lisa Lindelef
- Jeff Mattlin
- Simin Naaseh
- Peggy Otum
- Nancy Petrisko
- John Roevekamp
- Deb Stallings
- Jee Young You
AdvisoryCouncil
- Roz Barak
- Joseph Chan
- Michael Colbruno
- Steve Kesten
- Robert Ripps
- Nancy Roberts
- Lawrence Siegel, JD