Tulsa Opera has canceled its two MainStage 2023-24 season production due to financial struggles.

In a statement, the company said, “given the financial challenge for our upcoming year, we unfortunately must make a significant change to the upcoming season. We have canceled the performances for ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ in October and ‘La Traviata’ in May. Please know we share your disappointment in this decision. After all, we are not just staff and volunteer board members at Tulsa Opera; many of us are also artists.”

The company added that ticketholders for these two shows in the Mainstage Season may request a refund or can take a credit.

The Tulsa Opera noted that the pandemic and economic downturn has strained many companies. According to the company’s statement, OPERA America cites that 20 percent to 30 percent of subscribers have not returned to theaters.

Tulsa Opera also noted a 39 percent drop in revenue last year and this year, saw a 44 percent decline.

The company also announced that Ken McConnell has resigned as General Director and CEO. As a result, the board of directors has appointed Artistic Director and longtime Tulsa Opera staff member Aaron Beck as Interim General Director, effective immediately.

In the coming months the Tulsa Opera will announce updates on the future direction of the company.