OperaDelaware General Director Brendan Cooke has announced he will step down from his position at the conclusion of the company’s 2025–2026 season.

Cooke began his tenure in 2012 and under his leadership the company experienced more than a decade of artistic innovation and organizational growth. Cooke  expanded strategic regional collaborations, most notably with Opera Baltimore and in 2024 launched the groundbreaking Company Artist model, designed to cultivate emerging talent, support mid-career professionals and strengthen the company’s artistic identity. He also established new programming initiatives, including the widely acclaimed Pop-up Opera Program, which has broadened access to opera throughout Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region.

He also championed a wide repertoire in the existing canon from the popular titles to the rarely performed like Rossini’s “Semiramide” and the East Coast Premiere of Franco Faccio’s “Amleto.”

In addition to traditional works, Cooke oversaw the premieres of Derrick Wang’s “Scalia/Ginsburg,” “Fearless,” and Heggie’s “Dead Man Walking,” among others.

In a statement Cooke said, “After much reflection, I have decided that this will be my final season as General Director for OperaDelaware. This is a natural transition point for me. After 13 years, which is far longer than the average tenure of arts leaders, I am excited to explore other opportunities. It has been an extraordinary honor to lead this company and to share so many unforgettable moments with our patrons, supporters, and friends.”

OperaDelaware Board President Christina MacMillan also noted, “Brendan has guided OperaDelaware through more than a decade of extraordinary creativity and resilience. His commitment to collaboration, community, and artistic excellence has positioned the company for continued success. We are immensely grateful for his contributions and for the commitment with which he is aiding this transition.”

A search committee led by the OperaDelaware board of directors has been meeting since September 2025 to define the process for identifying the company’s next General Director.

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