The Atlanta Opera has announced a major evolution of its annual new-works initiative.

The company said that its 96-Hour Opera Festival will relaunch in 2026 under a new name— the NOW Festival (New Opera Works). The new title aims to reflect the company’s expanded commitment to championing bold, contemporary storytelling and nurturing the next generation of opera creators.

The company also announced the engagement of Tazewell Thompson, a renowned director, librettist, and playwright, who will join the organization as Artistic Advisor for the NOW Festival. In his new role, Thompson will help shape the festival’s artistic future, mentor emerging artists, and collaborate with The Atlanta Opera’s leadership to support innovations in the future of American opera.

In a statement Thompson said, “I gratefully accept the invitation to join the team of the NOW Festival — New Opera Works. I’m honored and delighted to serve as Artistic Advisor in focusing, fostering, and mentoring the development of new works as part of Atlanta Opera. I look forward to joining the company’s extraordinary contribution and continuing commitment to identifying and supporting the works of future composers and librettists telling stories that matter through the world of opera.”

The 2026 NOW Festival public events will unfold over three days in June, featuring the world premiere of the work “Water Memory” (Jala Smirti) by 2024 competition winners, composer Kitty Brazelton and librettist Vaibu Mohan at Georgia Tech’s Ferst Center, and the 96-Hour Project Competition and Showcase at Morehouse College.

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