The Living Opera in Richardson shut down permanently

by PegNews wire

Despite a vigorous fundraising campaign earlier this year, the Living Opera has not been able to raise sufficient funds to go forward with plans for their 2010 season. On Friday, Sept. 4, the board regretfully decided to cease operations and close down.

"It's been a difficult two years. The downturn in the economy hit arts organizations all across the U.S., and many that were bigger and older than us have had to close their doors" said board chair Michael Collier Bradley. "Thanks to the generosity of one supporter, we were able to mount our 2008 season, but earlier this year we made the decision to defer our 2009 season to 2010."

The season would have included the world premier of "The Legend of the Yellow Rose of Texas," an opera specially written for The Living Opera by Gregory Sullivan Isaacs. "I just hope some other Texas-based opera company will take up the music and libretto and give Texas opera-lovers the chance to see this unique opera based on a Texas legend," said Bradley.

Founded in 2004 by Michael and Amber Chadwick, the mission of The Living Opera was to bring opera to new audiences in the Dallas area at affordable prices and provide an opportunity for new, upcoming singers to be seen and heard.

Source: The Living Opera