Opera Theatre of Saint Louis has announced the appointment of Patricia Racette as the company’s new Artistic Director, effective Oct. 1, 2025.

The appointment follows a rigorous international search conducted by the Catherine French Group.

Racette has served as the head of Opera Theatre’s Young Artist Programs since 2019 and in her new position will report to and partner closely with General Director Andrew Jorgensen, leading a talented artistic team that includes Principal Conductor Daniela Candillari as well as the staff of Opera Theatre’s Artistic Administration and Production departments.

In addition to curating the programming, casting, and execution of Opera Theatre’s festival season and year-round events, she will also continue to lead the company’s Young Artist Programs, ensuring that the mentorship of artists at all levels of their careers and from all backgrounds remains central to OTSL’s work.

In a statement, Racette said, “I am deeply honored to step into this new chapter with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis. This company has long been a place where emerging artists — not just singers, but directors, designers, artisans, administrators, and so many others — can hone their talents and launch major careers. Opera Theatre is also a company that has never been afraid to take artistic risks, and as a result, world-class productions originate here that go on to stages around the country. I look forward to continuing and expanding that legacy by helping to curate programming that reflects our common humanity, incorporates new voices, and embodies the spirit of excellence that defines OTSL. I want every company member who walks through our doors to feel seen, supported, and challenged to be their very best.”

Racette is a soprano who performed internationally at many of the most prestigious theaters in the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House, Paris Opera, Teatro alla Scala, Bayerische Staatsoper, San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Houston Grand Opera. She has also originated roles in numerous world premieres and received such honors as the Opera News Award, the Richard Tucker Award, and the Marian Anderson Award.

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