S12 E30: Delaware State of the Arts - OperaDelaware

Delaware State of the Arts Podcast

Ever wondered how opera can stay relevant in a world of TikTok and Netflix? Join us as we sit down with Kerriann Otaño, Vice President of Engagement, and Brendan Cooke, General Director of Opera Delaware, who are proving opera still has its place in contemporary culture. They share their unique journey of overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in a pandemic-stricken environment, bringing opera to the people in the form of a pop-up truck. Yes, you read that right, a pop-up opera truck!
But their innovation doesn't stop there. From cultivating an audience as diverse as the community they serve, to extending the opera experience beyond the performance, Kerriann and Brendan are revolutionizing the way opera is consumed. We delve into their strategies of connecting with audiences through relatable storytelling and shared human experiences, mirroring how opera was once a social activity for everyone. The resonance of their work is evident through the positive reactions of their audience and their show's success.
Lastly, we discuss the groundbreaking efforts made to bring opera into schools and communities. This isn’t your traditional field trip to the opera house, but a top-class performance brought right at your doorstep courtesy of their unique mobile stage. The response? A resounding applause from both kids and adults alike. Yet, such an endeavor requires adequate funding and sponsorships. So, join us as we explore the future of opera, the crucial role of funding, and how Opera Delaware is tirelessly working to elevate arts and culture in the community.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Chapter

1. Opera Delaware (00:00:15)

2. Opera Delaware (00:08:58)

3. Bringing Opera to Schools and Communities (00:17:32)

4. Opera Delaware (00:31:12)

5. Opera Delaware (00:40:54)