Detroit Opera Names New President and CEO

Patty Isacson Sabee will step into the role, succeeding Wayne S. Brown

The Detroit Opera has been led by Wayne S. Brown since 2014. Patty Isacson Sabee will succeed him and become only the third President and CEO since the company's founding in 1971.

Isacson Sabee comes to the role from a position as the Executive Director of Planet Word, which hosts an immersive language experience celebrating the power of words in Washington, D.C.

Her early experience in arts administration was undertaken at the Seattle Symphony, where she worked her way up from roles in operations and administration to the position of Interim Executive Director over the course of two decades.

She also served as Director of External Relations & Development, and then CEO & Director, at Seattle's Museum of Pop Culture, during which time she was responsible for bringing in more than 600,000 visitors.

"Patty Isacson Sabee is a transformative, collaborative leader with more than 35 years of experience driving excellence at U.S. arts institutions," said Board Chairman Ethan Davidson. “With proven leadership and entrepreneurial skills, and knowledge and experience in all aspects of arts management, she is the right match for the Detroit Opera, which has become the destination for progressive opera in the United States."

"Detroit Opera is one of America’s great cultural treasures," said Isacson Sabee. "David DiChiera and Wayne Brown have been inspirational leaders in stewarding this company, and I look forward to preserving their important partnerships while building new connections that will advance Detroit Opera’s mission and deepen its impact."

"I also look forward to collaborating with Yuval Sharon, Christine Goerke, Roberto Kalb, and Detroit Opera’s Board, musicians, production and administrative staff in defining an innovative vision for opera and dance for the future. But most important, I look forward to engaging with the city of Detroit and the people who call it home. This city’s history and creative energy inspires and informs my path, and I am honored to lead the company at this exciting time."