Two decades ago, I fell in love with my husband, opera, and nonprofit work all in the span of a year. Last week, I was fortunate enough to go to Opera America to present on Endowment and Planned Giving Fundraising. It was the conference equivalent of a warm hug from an old friend.
The conference opened with a speech from Brendan Cook, the recent Executive Director of Opera Delaware, who framed his remarks as a "Merlin Letter" — a letter written from your future self to your present self, describing what the world looks like from the other side of an important decision or a major life event. It was thoughtful, funny, disarming, and surprisingly moving. I loved the exercise so much that I’m borrowing it.
Dear Amy,
I know how excited you are for this week! I’m happy to tell you that it’s better than you could have imagined. Here are the things you’ll realize a week from now:
- Opera is in huge transition. Michael Babbit (new Opera America CEO) will lay out a dramatic forward plan that requires deep reflection and some shattering changes. Like performing arts in general, it will adapt to survive.
- Opera people are amazing. You knew this, because you married one, but this week was a reminder how much you love this particular tribe.
- Opera is using AI at a remarkable pace and in very creative ways. AI isn’t on stage but it’s being leveraged by fundraisers and leaders to reimagine and create. (I had never thought about annual fund gift suggestions!)
- Opera is bringing new players to the table and partnering with other arts organizations to grow the breadth and scope of their work. (It was invigorating to see Stephen Schwartz talking about the overlap between opera and musical theater.)
- Opera will be OK. More than OK, actually. There are so many passionate people who radiate energy and forward momentum. Seeing their vision and commitment to this unique and vibrant art form will give you hope.