Shreveport Opera is one of the oldest Opera companies in the country. Having started from grass roots efforts in 1949, it still enjoys a wonderful reputation all across the United States.

Shreveport Opera has been privileged to host some of the world's greatest performers including Beverly Sills, Franco Corelli, Leontyne Price, and Sherrill Milnes. We have also enjoyed the wonderful opportunity to help launch the careers of internationally acclaimed stars such as Renee Fleming and Greer Grimsley.

Over the years there have been many creative leaders of the company, notably Mr. Robert Murray, who held the reigns for 17 years producing prominent productions while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Nearly all of the traditional operatic repertoire has been presented over its Sixty-year history.

In 2001-2002, Shreveport Opera created the Shreveport Opera Xpress, or SOX touring program. This educational and outreach component has proved a valuable and informative program for parishes throughout Northwestern Louisiana. The SOX program brings opera into area schools, performing venues, hospitals and retirement centers all in a effort to both entertain and educate our friends and neighbors about opera and the arts.

Currently, Shreveport Opera Xpress performs for an estimated 50,000 young people and adults every year. Currently, Shreveport Opera produces three main stage operas or musical theater works, and three touring operas for the SOX Program annually. We partner with Centenary College and Bossier Community College in order to foster new local talent. We are a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization in good standing with the IRS, and rely on the community at large for generosity and support.

Shreveport Opera Repertoire History > pdf