The Pittsburgh Festival Opera has announced that Christopher M. Powell will be its new Executive Director. He will take up the position on March 12, 2019, and lead the festival into its 42^nd edition.

Powell has worked as Director of Artistic Initiatives at the Glimmerglass Festival and was also Co-Executive Producer of the podcast “Breaking Glass.”

He also served as Music Administrator for the Pittsburgh Opera for 14 years. He also worked as Orchestra Personnel Manager at the Spoleto Festival USA and the Tanglewood Music Center. He also worked as music educator and Stage Managers for the 1995 Super Bowl XXIX halftime show.

“I am honored to join the Pittsburgh Festival Opera team,” said Powell upon his acceptance of the position.  “I am truly impressed by the enthusiasm of the Board of Directors, staff, and Artistic Director Jonathan Eaton, who have given me insight into this wonderful company.  I look forward to moving back to my beautiful hometown of Pittsburgh and becoming a partner within its vibrant cultural community.”

For its 2019 Festival, the company is set to showcase “The Love of Danae,” Mister Rogers’ Operas,” “Die Walküre,” and “Gianni Schicchi.”