Opera Colorado and the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) have announced their first-ever collective bargaining agreement.

The parties reached an agreement on June 18, and it was ratified by AGMA’s Board of Governors on July 13.

In a statement, Barbara Lynne Jamison, the Ellie Caulkins Artistic Director and CEO of Opera Colorado said, “This agreement begins an important new chapter in the story of Opera Colorado, one that I believe honors our superb artists and strengthens both the company and the art we create in our community.”

Adam Da Ros, who served on the negotiating committee added, “After three years, we are thrilled to have reached this milestone in building a new relationship between Opera Colorado and its artists. This agreement reflects a great deal of hard work on both sides and keeps artists at the center of creating opera, allowing us to move forward together with confidence and a shared belief in a sustainable future for opera in Colorado.”

The three-year agreement with AGMA will provide all artists and artisans with safe and healthy working conditions and reliable pay that honors their essential work in the production of opera. The agreement recognizes the chorus and AGMA artists as professionals.

The parties also reached agreement on a side-letter to govern the Artists in Residence program, Opera Colorado’s emerging artist apprenticeship program, providing them with housing, weekly wages, and additional contract opportunities for mainstage productions. This program helps emerging artists bridge from academic training into professional careers.

Opera Colorado opens its 2026–27 season in September with the Artists in Residence showcase, followed by “Macbeth” in November.