Lyric Opera of Kansas City Announces Retirement of General Director
By Francisco SalazarThe Lyric Opera of Kansas City has announce that General Director and CEO Deborah Sandler Kemper will retire at the conclusion of the 2026–2027 season, on June 30, 2027, after 15 years of visionary leadership.
Sandler Kemper joined Lyric Opera of Kansas City on July 1, 2012, becoming the first woman to serve as general director and CEO in the company’s history and only the third person to hold the role since the Lyric’s founding in 1958.
Under her leadership, the Lyric has expanded its offerings of American composers commissioned five operas and stage works, many of which have achieved record-breaking attendance and national critical acclaim. She is also responsible for creating the “Explorations Series.”
In a statement she said, “These past 14 years have been an extraordinary journey. It has been a rare gift to serve in the company’s leadership and witness its growth, evolution, and expanding influence on the Kansas City arts landscape. Helping to shape and mature this outstanding cultural treasure andincreasing Lyric Opera’s visibility among our peers across North America has been a true privilege and an unforgettable adventure.I am deeply grateful toan extremely talented staff, artists, board members, donors, and audiences whose passion and support made this journey possible.”
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