First time opera attendees are sought to become guest critics by Toledo Opera. The Opera is hoping to engage such audience members in its second round of “Vie Then Voice” focus groups in order to gain insights that will help build and diversify the next generation of opera-goers in Toledo.
Each selected participant will receive two tickets – one for them and one for a guest – to attend the final dress rehearsal of Toledo Opera’s upcoming performance of La Traviata.
“This project was inspired by ‘Look at Art. Get Paid.,’ a model co-created by artists Maia Chao and Josephine Devanbu. We believe we can learn a lot from first-time opera attendees,” said Alyssa Greenberg, community engagement director for Toledo Opera. “We look forward to meeting our participants, listening to what they have to share, and developing impactful ways to engage more deeply Toledo area residents.”
The performance will take place at the Valentine Theatre, located at 410 Adams Street, Wednesday, April 20 at 7:00 p.m. Then, during the week of April 25, participants must also participate in a focus group session that will be held at the ProMedica Ebeid Center, 1806 Madison Avenue. Free transportation will be available upon request. All selected participants will receive a $50 honorarium.
“This initiative is in line with Toledo Opera’s new mission, vision, and values,” said Suzanne Rorick, executive director of Toledo Opera. “In order to create a space for everyone, we must listen to feedback, collaborate with the community, and innovate. We are excited to see where this will lead.”
The View Then Voice application form can be found at toledoopera.org/view.
Toledo Opera will accept applications now through Monday, March 28. Selected participants will be notified in early April.
For more information about View Then Voice, please contact Alyssa Greenberg, community engagement director for Toledo Opera, at agreenberg@toledoopera.org, or visit toledoopera.org/view.