Christina Scheppelmann to Leave WNO in November

Washington National Opera (WNO) today announced Christina Scheppelmann, WNO's Director of Artistic Operations, will step down effective November 30, 2012.

A mainstay of the company since 2002, Ms. Scheppelmann's work has included engaging world-renowned artists, producing new works, overseeing new broadcast and simulcast initiatives, and presenting ambitious and diverse repertory to Washington audiences. While at the Opera she has overseen management of the Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program and helped to create the American Opera Initiative, a comprehensive new commissioning program for young American composers and librettists. Ms. Scheppelmann will announce her forthcoming plans at a later date.

"It's been such a pleasure to work with Christina Scheppelmann over the last 10 years. Whether at our board meetings or at our audience Q&A's, her passion for opera is infectious," said WNO Board Chairman Jacqueline B. Mars. "WNO is grateful for the important mark she has left on our company."

"Christina has served Washington National Opera well in her decade here," said Kennedy Center President Michael M. Kaiser. "Her hard work and diligence were key to making WNO's recent affiliation with the Kennedy Center a success."

"Christina has been a wonderful colleague. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of opera and a sharp ear; she has brought many wonderful singers to Washington for the first time," added WNO Executive Director Michael L. Mael. "We will continue to reap the rewards of her artistic leadership for seasons to come."

Related Links

Washington National Opera to Premiere APPROACHING ALI, 6/8-9 May 15, 2013

Soprano Angela Meade Named Washington National Opera's Artist of the Year May 14, 2013

BWW Reviews: SHOW BOAT Rolls Along at Washington National Opera by Jeffrey Walker - May 06, 2013

SHOW BOAT Opens Tonight at the Kennedy Center May 04, 2013

WNO to Present Opera in the Outfield Performance of SHOW BOAT at Nationals Park, 5/18 April 10, 2013