(Credit: Jonathan Tichler / Met Opera)

New York State has awarded the Metropolitan Opera a $2 million grant in support of its artistic and operational work.

The company announced the news on social media and said, “We are incredibly grateful that the Metropolitan Opera has been awarded a $2 million grant from New York State to support its artistic and operational work. This funding reflects the power of collective advocacy and the importance of investing in New York’s cultural institutions. Earlier this year, union members joined the Met’s Government Relations team in Albany to meet with nearly 30 members of the State Senate and Assembly, helping to put faces to the talented workers who make the Met’s performances possible.”

It added “It was inspiring to collaborate with partnering unions in this effort, with the strong support of @nysaflcio, AGMA, IATSE, IATSE local one, Locals 751, IATSE Local 764, 794, IATSE Local 798, Theatrical Teamsters Local 817, United Scenic Artists, USA Local 829,  32 BJ SEIU, and AFM Local 802, all united in championing public investment in culture and the performing arts.”

The statement concluded,  “We are deeply grateful to New York State for this significant investment and to Governor Kathy Hochul, our local representatives Assemblymember Linda Brosenthaland Senator Erik Bottcher, and the many legislators, advocates, artists, administrators, and union members whose collective efforts helped make this grant possible. This award is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we work together to support the institutions and workers who enrich our communities.”

The news comes as the Met is preparing its 2026-27 season which opens on Sept. 22 with a new production of “Macbeth” starring Lise Davidsen and Quinn Kelsey.