The Young Friends Steering Committee of Opera Theatre, led by Mary Ann Srenco, was formed in 2008 with a mission to attract new, younger, and more diverse audiences, and to forge lasting bonds which build interest, appreciation and passion for the art form and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis.
Expectations for Committee Members:
- Attend meetings three times a year or as needed to plan events and learn more about Opera Theatre
- Attend at least two performances during the festival season, or as schedule permits
- Generate enthusiasm for Opera Theatre and encourage attendance at special Young Friends events
Benefits for Committee Members:
- An insider’s perspective through backstage tours and opportunities to engage with Opera Theatre staff and artists
- Networking opportunities
- An invitation to serve on Opera Theatre’s Wine & Beer Tasting Committee
- Invitations to Opera Theatre special events (otherwise reserved for donors of $50 and up): The annual Holiday Concert in December, featuring Opera Theatre’s Artists-in-Residence, and the annual Season Preview event, which offers a sneak preview of set and costume designs in progress from Opera Theatre staff and artists
- An opportunity to organize a group night at the opera during the season with help from OTSL staff
For more information or to become involved with the Young Friends Steering Committee of Opera Theatre please contact Emilie Hensley at (314) 963-4223 or 223@opera-stl.org
Even if you aren't interested in joining the committee, you can still join us for the Young Friends events. We host two Young Friends events during the opera season and more throughout the year. If you'd like to be added to our mailing list to receive invitations to these events, please contact Emilie Hensley at (314) 963-4223 or 223@opera-stl.org
The committee hosted two sold-out events during the 2010 Festival Season, welcoming a total of 147 Young Friends. Guests enjoyed cocktails and a buffet dinner on the lawn outside the theater prior to Opera Theatre’s performance of A Little Night Music on June 6th and also on June 12th prior to the performance of The Marriage of Figaro. On June 6th, the Young Friends were thrilled to have an opportunity to talk with fashion icon Isaac Mizrahi about his role as director and designer for A Little Night Music.
Guests enjoy dinner before the performance of A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC
Young Friends mingling before dinner
Isaac Mizrahi, Mary Ann Srenco, Timothy O'Leary
