New York’s Syracuse Opera Files for Bankruptcy

After operating for 50 years, the opera company has now shut down due to financial challenges 

New York’s Syracuse Opera recently filed for bankruptcy, citing financial difficulties and post-COVID challenges including waning audience numbers. Previously, the company had been in continuous operation since 1974. 

In November 2023, the company canceled the remainder of its 2023/24 season and furloughed its staff. As explained by its board chair, Camille Tisdel, ticket sales had dropped between 40% and 60% since the pandemic.

“While our recent productions have been artistically excellent and impactful, like many opera companies across the country, ticket sales have been considerably lower than projected, and we do not have the financial ability to continue the season,” Tisdel said at the time. 

“Additionally, given the economic climate and uncertainty in our world, grant support, sponsorship, and donations are all in jeopardy with no real promise of a return to pre-pandemic giving levels.”

The Syracuse Opera was once the only year-round professional opera company in Central New York, and hosted locally produced opera, with fully staged performances featuring world-class and local talent. 

Its shutdown is among others occurring in the industry, including the recent closing down of the Maryland Lyric Opera, Inland Northwest Opera, and the Miami Lyric Opera, reported WSWS. Similarly, Tulsa Opera canceled its 2023/24 season due to financial difficulties.