EARNING ACCLAIM, SERVING SAINT LOUIS THE GOLDEN TICKET “… CAPTURES ALL THE WIT, WIZARDRY, AND WONDER OF DAHL'S STORY.” FINANCIAL TIMES (LONDON) OPERA THEATRE OF SAINT LOUIS MISSION To communicate the power and beauty of live opera to audiences of all ages and experiences by presenting world-class productions in a festival format. To build a vibrant future for opera and serve our community through professional development and community education programs. To strengthen the cultural and economic vitality of our region.
A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL DIRECTOR A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD The Wells Fargo Advisors 2010 season’s lineup of brilliant singers It is a privilege once again to present this report as chairman. and varied repertoire, including <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong>’s 22nd world First and foremost I want to recognize the heroic efforts of <strong>Opera</strong> premiere, brought in new audiences in record numbers. Nearly a <strong>Theatre</strong>’s staff and leadership to deliver a balanced budget for the third of performances sold at more than 100%, and 22% of the 2010 fiscal year. This is always an incredible feat, but managing audience discovered <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong> for the first time this year. it, given the challenges of the current economic climate, is truly It is a joy to thank OTSL’s artists, staff, board members, volunteers, extraordinary. "Nearly a third of performances sold at more than 100%, and 22% of the audience discovered <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong> for the first time this year." and generous friends for making these accomplishments possible, while also ensuring that we upheld OTSL’s tradition of ending “in the black,” despite a challenging economic environment. Building an ever-broader and more diverse audience was a key goal of <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong>’s 2009 strategic plan. The world premiere of The Golden Ticket brought international <strong>acclaim</strong> as well as unusual numbers of families and children into our theater. Famed designer Isaac Mizrahi’s new production of A Little Night Music was also a hit with critics, OTSL regulars, and newcomers alike, reaching sales of 101% of capacity for its run. For a Mozart enthusiast like me, it was especially wonderful to sit amid sold-out crowds for The Marriage of Figaro, and I know that many of us will never forget the haunting and heartbreaking performances in this season's production of Eugene Onegin. In keeping with OTSL's commitment to responsible business practices, we continue to support the future of our company by investing for the long term. Thanks to the ongoing generosity of our contributors, our endowment has grown 13%, from 16.6 million in 2008 to 18.7 million in 2010. Total annual fundraising increased by 6% in FY09 and grew an additional 6% in FY10. A significant boon was having Wells Fargo Advisors sign on as the presenting sponsor for both the 2010 season and the Spring Gala. Thanks to their support and to the generosity of our host, Centene Corporation, coupled with the singular efforts of cochairs Donna Wilkinson and Carol Walker, the 2010 Spring Gala generated the highest-ever net revenue for the annual fund, raising more than $700,000 to mark OTSL’s 35th anniversary. "Thanks to the unfailing generosity of our contributors, our endowment has grown 13%, from $16.6 million in 2008 to $18.7 million in 2010." The vision and artistry of <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong>’s music director Stephen Lord and artistic director James Robinson are responsible for imagining seasons like this one, but the inspiring dedication of the entire OTSL family is what makes them a reality. As we look to a future of thrilling challenges and opportunities, I cannot thank you enough. Timothy O’Leary General Director, <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong> of Saint Louis Perhaps the most significant event of 2010 in terms of securing OTSL’s financial future was the $2 million gift from the Mabel Dorn Reeder Foundation, the largest single contribution that OTSL has received in its 35-year history. This amazing gift, along with the generous contributions of so many others, highlights once again <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong>’s importance in the cultural life of the St. Louis community. I am honored to be a part of this organization. Spencer Burke Chairman, Board of Directors, <strong>Opera</strong> <strong>Theatre</strong> of Saint Louis 2 EARNING ACCLAIM, SERVING SAINT LOUIS OPERA THEATRE OF SAINT LOUIS | ANNUAL REPORT 2010 3
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