Mission: LA Opera created a sensation with its debut production of Verdi's Otello starring Plácido Domingo in October 1986. Under the leadership of Founding General Director Peter Hemmings and then Plácido Domingo, LA Opera has grown to become a company of international stature. Presenting leading productions in the standard repertory as well as new and rarely-staged operas, the Company brings prominent LA artists together with other world-renowned singers, designers, directors and conductors to create opera that attracts the attention of international audiences and critics. Since its inception, LA Opera has served nearly one million students, senior citizens, and other audiences through its internationally recognized Education and Community Programs. (Less)

LA Opera is a 501(c)(3) organization, with an IRS ruling year of 1960, and donations are tax-deductible.