New York City Opera’s General Director Retires

Michael Capasso will retire after over 40 years of producing and directing many productions at the company

Having worked extensively as a stage director, Michael Capasso founded the Dicapo Opera Theatre in 1981 and has led the New York City Opera since its revival in 2016 as general director. 

Throughout his tenure, he has produced and led multiple world premieres, American premieres, and New York premieres, plus all the works of Puccini among other opera classics and works of American opera. 

Since giving its first performance in 1944, the New York City Opera has presented over 100 concerts in some seasons and featured artists including Beverly Sills, Plácido Domingo, and Renée Fleming early in their careers.

In 2013, the organization filed for bankruptcy but returned in 2016 to present several productions per season through to the 2018/19 season until the pandemic forced it to cut back once more. Capasso said the decision to leave his role was made by him and not the board — adding that his plan in 2016 was for City Opera to eventually reach 75 performances per season.

According to The Washington Post, the company’s endowment went from $48 million in 2008, $5.1 million in 2012, and $1.4 million in 2022.

“After 43 years of producing opera, musicals, plays, and concerts in the US and internationally, I have made the difficult decision to retire as General Director of New York City Opera,” Capasso expressed in a press release. “I am also proud that I have discovered and nurtured many artists now enjoying important careers worldwide.

“The highlight of my life was leading City Opera out of bankruptcy and back on stage in Lincoln Center,” he added. “I have loved the company since I was a pre-teen enjoying dozens of memorable performances by this great institution. I wish them well going forward and will attend and applaud all of their future programming.”

In the meantime, succeeding Capasso is Constantine Orbelian, who has been appointed New York City Opera’s new Executive Director and Music Director. 

“We look forward to this new chapter in New York City Opera’s story,” added Roy G. Niederhoffer, Chairman Emeritus of the Board. “We are grateful to Michael for his time with NYCO, working tirelessly to bring back the company and programming for New York City audiences to enjoy. We are so pleased to have Constantine’s roles expand as the new leader of City Opera — the future looks bright!”

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of Executive Director in addition to my current role as Music Director and Principal Conductor of the New York City Opera, a company with such a rich legacy and profound history in the world of music,” said Orbelian. “This opportunity allows me to blend my passion for artistic excellence with mindful and positive stewardship, ensuring that the cherished traditions of this great institution continue to thrive. Together with this wonderful community, we will embark on a journey that honors the past while boldly shaping the future of this iconic opera company.”

“The staff and Board of Directors are grateful for the leadership and vision Michael offered during the resurrection of New York City Opera and in the years that followed,” the press release added. “We all wish him success and happiness in this next chapter.”