Opera Atelier

About Opera Atelier:

In 1985, two Toronto dancers, Marshall Pynkoski and Jeannette Lajeunesse Zingg, started Opera Atelier (OA).   This Opera-ballet company produces masterpieces of the 17^th and 18^th centuries.  OA recently added 19^th century works to its repertoire.  The organization puts a creative spin on the pieces it presents.  OA achieves its period theme by featuring original instruments, elaborate stage décor and costumes.  OA is committed to promoting the fusion of opera, ballet and drama, not only in Canada but also abroad.  Through touring, OA has introduced baroque opera to Japan, Korea and Singapore.  Most notably, in 1995, the company performed at the inauguration of the restored opera house at Chateau Versailles, France.  OA has shaped the careers of artists such as Russell Braun and Measha Brueggergosman.

Each year, OA works with over 1,200 students from across the GTA in its Making of an Opera (MoaO) program.  This day-long program introduces students to the world of opera through a series of hands-on workshops.  Opera Atelier’s School of Atelier Ballet offers instruction in ballet, modern dance and historical dance.  Students pay for classes at the school but a scholarship program is available for those with financial need.

Financial Review:

In F2011, OA’s administrative costs were 6% of revenues and fundraising costs were 7% of donations.  OA’s funding reserves were $541k, including $162k of donor-endowed funds from OA’s Ontario Arts Endowment Fund.  Total funding reserves cover 26% of annual program costs.  OA's capital expenditures were $269k in F2011, $216k in F2010, and $163k in F2009.