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Opera Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Safety Coordinator reports to the Met Opera's Director of Safety. This role provides administrative, coordination, and observational support across all aspects of the Met's safety function. The ...

Safety Coordinator

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Safety Coordinator reports to the Met Opera's Director of Safety. This role provides administrative, coordination, and observational support across all aspects of the Met's safety function. The ...

Safety Coordinator

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Safety Coordinator reports to the Met Opera's Director of Safety. This role provides administrative, coordination, and observational support across all aspects of the Met's safety function. The ...

$100 - $110/hr

Lyric Opera of Chicago doesn't just present opera, it redefines what opera can be. It's where Chicago comes to be moved -- come inside. We are searching for a Director to lead Lyric's Development ...

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Opera Director information

What does an opera director do?

An Opera Director is responsible for overseeing the artistic vision and staging of an opera production. They work closely with performers, designers, and conductors to bring the story to life through movement, characterization, and visual elements. Their role includes interpreting the score and libretto, guiding rehearsals, and ensuring cohesion between music and theatrical performance. Ultimately, they shape the overall audience experience by blending music, drama, and stagecraft.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an opera director?

To thrive as an Opera Director, you need a deep understanding of music, dramatic interpretation, and stagecraft, usually supported by formal training in theatre, music, or opera direction. Familiarity with score reading software, stage management systems, and sometimes union regulations is important for coordinating performances and rehearsals. Superior leadership, creativity, communication, and organizational skills help guide teams and bring artistic visions to life. These abilities are crucial for successfully navigating complex productions and ensuring cohesive, compelling performances.

What are the main challenges an opera director faces during a production?

Opera Directors often encounter the challenge of balancing artistic vision with the practical constraints of budgets, casting, and venue limitations. Coordinating large teams—including singers, musicians, designers, and technicians—requires strong leadership and communication throughout the rehearsal process. Successfully resolving creative differences and logistical issues while adhering to deadlines is a key part of the role. The ability to adapt and problem-solve on the fly ensures that both rehearsals and performances run smoothly, ultimately bringing the director’s vision to the stage.

How much does an opera director make?

Opera directors typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, the size of the production, and the organization. Salaries can vary widely, with those working for major companies or in large markets earning higher wages. Many opera directors also supplement income through freelance work or consulting on multiple productions.
More about Opera Director jobs

What cities are hiring for Opera Director jobs?

Cities with the most Opera Director job openings:

What states have the most Opera Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Opera Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Opera Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Director of Opera with a Tenure Line Assistant or Associate Professor Appointment in the School of

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Director of Opera with a Tenure Line Assistant or AssociateProfessor Appointment in the School of Music Details DUTIES
  • Teach Opera Workshop class for undergraduate and graduate performance students.
  • Assist with role preparation and stagecraft for opera productions, and provide individualized coaching to singers on interpretation, diction, dramatic expression, and stage presence.
  • Direct staged opera scenes and/or full productions in collaboration with the opera program's principal coach, conductor, and production team.
  • Mentor students on all aspects of professional preparation, including repertoire selection, audition technique, career strategy, and industry networking.
  • Collaborate with faculty colleagues in voice, collaborative piano, conducting, and other areas to integrate performance training with the department's curricular goals.
  • Maintain an active profile as a performer, director, or other industry professional, contributing to the visibility and prestige of the program.
  • Participate in departmental, college, and university service, including recruitment, auditions, and outreach activities.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master's degree in vocal performance, opera, or a closely related field (doctoral degree preferred).
  • Significant professional experience as an opera singer, opera director, or vocal coach at the national or international level.
  • Demonstrated success in teaching opera performance, acting for singers, or related subjects at the collegiate or conservatory level.
  • Proven ability to mentor emerging artists in artistic, technical, and career development.
  • Excellent communication and collaborative skills.
ADDITIONAL PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience producing or directing full-scale operatic productions.
  • Established professional network within the opera and classical music industry.
  • Ability to teach additional courses such as acting, movement, or vocal literature.

Department: 00078 - School of Music

City: Salt Lake City, UT

Track: Tenure Track

Close Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

Requisition Number: PRN01538CF

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/205338

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.

Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number, can be located at https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/.

Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu.

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