Minnesota Opera has announced that it will extend Principal Conductor Christopher Franklin’s contract for an additional three seasons.

Franklin will remain through the 2028-2029 season.

In a statement, President and General Director Ryan Taylor said, “When we appointed Christopher in 2023, our goal was to deepen our commitment to a dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive future for the art of opera,” s “MN Opera has long been dedicated to both reimagining inherited repertoire and bringing new works to life, and Christopher’s artistry aligns seamlessly with that approach. He has enriched our work in meaningful ways, and we are thrilled he will continue with us for the next several seasons.”

Vice President Joseph Li added, “Christopher brings a creative fire and distinctive wit and grace that makes collaborating with him a true pleasure for our MN Opera family,” says Joseph Li, VP, Artistic. “Our orchestra and vocalists thrive so beautifully led by his keen musical instincts and Christopher’s commitment to MN Opera for the next several seasons will only energize our mission to sing every story.”

Franklin made his debut with the Minnesota Opera in 2011 and was later appointed Principal Conductor in 2023. With the company he has conducted “The Elixir of Love,” “La bohème,” and “Romeo and Juliet,” as well as the benefit concert Glam Jam, In the spring he conducts “The Barber of Seville” and “Così fan tutte,” “Pagliacci,” and a concert presentation of “Edgar” during the 2025-2026 season.

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