Opera Omaha has announced that General Director Roger Weitz will be leaving the company at the end of 2022.

Weitz began his tenure in August of 2011 and under his leadership the company saw growth in ticket sales, subscribers, endowment, and the annual budget doubled over the course of 10 years. Per an official statement, donations went up every year of his tenure with one exception.

His tenure also saw the launch of the company’s signature ONE Festival in 2018 as well as the Holland Community Opera Fellow in 2017.

“I was born and raised in Omaha, and it’s been an honor to lead my hometown opera company for more than a decade,” said Weitz in an official press statement. “I am incredibly fortunate to do what I love in a place that I cherish, and I’d like to thank the people of this city who have embraced and supported Opera Omaha throughout my time here.”

Per the release, Weitz’ decision to step down is due to his 11-year-old son’s autism and the impact it is having on the family. “ I have found support services that he truly connects with, they are based out of state,” Weitz explains. “We don’t plan to move, but we will spend a significant amount of time away each year.”

The company will commence its search for a new General Director next month.