The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance has announced the appointment of Chandler Johnson as Artistic Director of Dayton Opera.

Johnson is set to begin a three-year term on July 1, 2026, taking over for Kathleen Clawson, who announced her intent to step down in February 2026.

Johnson most recently served as Director of the Apprentice Program for Singers at the Santa Fe Opera, where he contributed to season planning, casting strategy, budget forecasting, and long-term artistic initiatives. Prior to that, he held artistic administration positions with Los Angeles Opera, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, and Stratagem Artists.

“I am profoundly honored to join the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance as the next Artistic Director of Dayton Opera,” said Johnson, per an official press release. “Dayton Opera has a rich 65-year history of artistic excellence, and I am thrilled to build upon that incredible foundation. What excites me most about DPAA is its unique collaborative model — bringing together opera, ballet, and orchestra under one creative umbrella offers unparalleled opportunities for innovative and unique storytelling.”

Prior artistic directors of the company include Thomas Bankston (1996–2021), Jane Nelson (1993–1995), Dr. David DiChiera (1981–1993), and Lester Freedman (1961–1981).

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