An Opera Theatre (AOT) was founded in 2018 with a mission to produce socially relevant works to break down the barriers of the classical art form and bring communities together.

As the Twin Cities’ boldest opera company, guided by our core vision of Art To Action, we return opera to its original purpose: a platform for civic discourse that amplifies voices historically pushed to the margins. We honor the ancient, multicultural roots of the art form while boldly pushing it toward an intercultural, decolonized future, creating opera experiences that are urgent, inclusive, and deeply connected to today. 

Landmark AOT Productions:

The Consul (Nov 2018) – AOT’s inaugural production. Gian Carlo Menotti’s masterpiece on immigration, presented in partnership with The Advocates for Human Rights

WE OUT: Voicing Our Truth (July 2020) – a raw, community-driven celebration of Black joy and resilience

The Sky Where You Are (Oct 2020) – new commission created with Women’s Advocates; permanently archived in the Library of Congress (2021)

Mináǧi kiŋ dowáŋ (“My spirit sings” in Dakota) (Oct 2022) – opera film honoring the life and legacy of Zitkála-Šá; currently on a regional screening tour

The Cradle Will Rock (Apr 2024) – electrifying new production blending live opera with shadow puppetry

DIVAS & DRAG (annually)- D&D showcases the art of Drag and the spectacle of Opera as local Drag and Opera artists forge their brilliance for unforgettable mashups celebrating self-expression through the most spectacular art forms ever to grace the stage.

Beyond the Stage:

VOICE LAB: A FREE MONTHLY SINGING WORKSHOP

A joyful, no-pressure peer-to-peer space for singers of every genre, background, and experience level. No auditions. No barriers. Just voice, community, and growth.

OPERA IMMERSION

Year-round creative partnerships with Gordon Parks High School, South High School, and Lionsgate Academy.

We’ve replaced “opera history” lectures with hands-on training in storytelling, expression, collaborative leadership, and finding your personal voice. We’re not just teaching opera, we’re raising the next generation of artists and curious audiences in the Twin Cities!

AOT is more than an opera company, we are a movement. Join us for unforgettable live performances, film screenings, workshops, and education programs that prove opera can change hearts, spark dialogue, and build community in the Twin Cities.