By Zach Ciavolella

Opera Philadelphia has extended the contracts of General Director and President Anthony Roth Costanzo and Music Director Corrado Rovaris, the company announced Monday.

Costanzo and Rovaris, who were previously under contract through 2027, will now remain with the company through May 31, 2029.

Joining Opera Philadelphia on a three-year term that began on June 1, 2024, Costanzo arrived with the company in debt. His arrival brought immediate returns, as Opera Philadelphia raised over $7 million through gifts and pledges, helping stabilize the organization. Costanzo established a fundraising campaign, expected to run through the end of next season, which has raised $21 million toward a $33 million goal, and successfully paid off the company’s debt.

Costanzo has overseen a dramatic reimagining of the company from both an operational and artistic perspective, introducing innovative ideas like the “pick-your-price” program, which drew national attention by making tickets available for as low as $11 and made the opera vastly more accessible. Under his guidance, the company’s number of productions and performances has increased from 3 and 9, to 5 and 18, respectively, and the company closed its 2024-25 season with a $2.1 million surplus on an $11.1 million budget.

Last year, Costanzo played a key role in keeping the former Wanamaker Center City store space alive after the historic building was vacated by Macy’s, through Opera Philadelphia’s Pipe Up! performance series, which was built around the preservation and reawakening of the Wanamaker Organ and Grand Court. The series saw 33 total performances and, through WHYY’s televised and radio broadcasts, reached thousands more.

“The incredible growth and change that has taken root at Opera Philadelphia is thanks to the partnership and vision of our amazing board, artists, staff, supporters, and audiences, new and old,” said Costanzo. “It is a privilege not only to lead this company, but to have an artistic soul mate like Corrado Rovaris by my side, reminding me at every turn how our passion for the art form can always lead the way.”

For the latest news and upcoming events, visit operaphila.org.