Opera Las Vegas has selected Cecilia Violetta López as its incoming General Director and CEO, with her tenure beginning on July 1, 2025.

In her announcement, the soprano shared, “My journey has been a series of meaningful full-circle moments, and this role marks yet another. I’ve stayed deeply engaged with the Opera Las Vegas community. Reflecting on my roots—working with my mother in the beet fields of Southern Idaho, studying at UNLV, and performing on stages where I’ve taken some of my most memorable bows—it’s an honor to step into the path laid by the company’s founders. I’m thrilled to build on the rich legacy of Opera Las Vegas.”

López has graced the stages of numerous prestigious regional opera companies throughout her career, including Minnesota Opera, Opera Colorado, Opera Tampa, Opera Idaho, Opera Southwest, Ash Lawn Opera, The Northern Lights Music Festival, Madison Opera, Pacific Symphony, and Virginia Opera.

As General Director and CEO, López aims to elevate Opera Las Vegas’s presence in the community by fostering innovative programming and expanding outreach initiatives. Her vision includes strengthening partnerships with local artists and organizations to make opera more accessible to diverse audiences. “I want to ensure that Opera Las Vegas continues to be a vibrant cultural hub, where stories are told through music and voices are celebrated,” López stated.

Her appointment has been met with enthusiasm from the Opera Las Vegas board and community. Board President, James Thompson, remarked, “Cecilia’s artistry, leadership, and deep connection to our organization make her the ideal choice to guide Opera Las Vegas into its next chapter. We are confident her passion and experience will inspire growth and creativity.”

López’s extensive performance background, combined with her commitment to arts education and community engagement, positions her uniquely to lead the organization. During her time at UNLV, she honed her craft and developed a profound appreciation for the transformative power of opera, which she now brings to her leadership role.

Opera Las Vegas, founded in 1999, has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape, presenting world-class productions and nurturing emerging talent. With López at the helm, the company is poised to continue its mission of delivering exceptional operatic experiences while embracing new opportunities for growth and inclusion.