Opera Columbus has announced the launch of its inaugural Directing Fellowship program, a new initiative designed to foster early career opportunities for BIPOC stage directors. This program, a cornerstone of the company’s 40th Anniversary season, aims to redefine regional opera by embracing emerging talent, fresh perspectives, and modern technology to engage a more diverse audience.

The fellowship provides hands-on experience in directing and production development, including assistant directing mainstage productions and directing independent projects. The program’s goal is to increase the number of diverse creative leaders in the opera industry, with the potential for successful fellows to be invited back for a second season to direct a full mainstage production. This initiative signifies Opera Columbus’ commitment to strengthening its artistic ecosystem and ensuring greater resilience and creativity within the arts community.

Luther Lewis III has been selected as the first Directing Fellow. Lewis, a tenor, director, and visual artist, will assist in directing productions such as ‘Tosca,’ ‘Fellow Travelers,’ and ’40 Days of Opera,’ and will also stage direct ‘Vanqui.’ Additionally, he will contribute to Opera Columbus’ touring education productions. Lewis expressed his honor and enthusiasm for the fellowship, highlighting Opera Columbus’ dedication to including diverse voices in both performance and the creative process.

Source: https://www.operacolumbus.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Opera-Columbus_-Directing-Fellow_-Press-Release-2021_F.pdf