It is with a heavy heart that we announce to the OVT/BARN OPERA family that we have lost one of our own. Prior Brandon Town Manager and previous President of the Board of Directors of BARN OPERA, David Atherton, unfortunately passed away in his sleep two nights ago. He was instrumental in helping us navigate the State’s bureaucracy, and in establishing this current chapter of partner venue relationships and statewide outreach. While he left our board last year, his impact is still felt. Thank you for everything, Dave, and we send our heartfelt condolences to his wife Heather, and their children Benjamin and Elizabeth. To all who knew and loved him, may his memory be a blessing that lives on in his work and passion for our community. (fb)

INCREDIBLE NEWS! As we celebrate World Opera Day on October 25th, we invite you to join us in recognizing the power of opera to inspire, connect, and enrich our lives. At Opera Vermont, we are proud to continue this tradition here in our beautiful state. As a gift and vote of confidence in the direction of Opera Vermont transitioning from BARN OPERA, and sharing our brand of nationally and internationally-recognized opera, we have been given a tremendous gift by an Opera Vermont supporter in the way of a matching fund! WHEN we are able to raise $50,000 by January 1st, a generous anonymous donor has offered to MATCH it in its entirety. With your generosity, Opera Vermont will be able to: • Continue delivering world-class productions to all Vermont audiences by engaging in partnerships with other regionally-recognized institutions, orchestras, and artists. • Provide educational and outreach programs that inspire future generations. • Ensure that the beauty of opera remains accessible to all in our regions CLICK HERE TO DONATE: https://operavermont.ludus.com/fundraiser.php?id=3122 (fb)