Placido Domingo to Be Honored at Washington Opera Ball

  • January 12, 2011
Placido Domingo to Be Honored at Washington Opera Ball
Maestro Domingo will be feted at the lavish fundraiser on Saturday, May 7, 2011, at the Chancery of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, where business, government and arts leaders will come together for a once-in-a-lifetime event.

For 15 years, Plácido Domingo has led Washington National Opera, first at its Artistic Director (1996 to 2003) and then as General Director (2003 to present). His leadership has earned WNO international recognition, through world-class performances, innovative initiatives and tours.

The evening prior to Opera Ball, on May 6, 2011, Maestro Domingo will sing the lead role of Oreste in WNO's production of Gluck’s opera Iphigénie en Tauride, running May 6 to May 28 at the Kennedy Center Opera House. The renowned tenor's performance, coupled with the illustrious Opera Ball, is expected to draw Domingo supporters from around the globe. Maestro Domingo announced in September 2010 that he will step down from his general directorship in June 2011. He plans to maintain an association with WNO.

Among the most anticipated events of the Capital's social season, The Opera Ball was recently named the #1 benefit event in Washington, D.C. (BizBash). As WNO's most significant annual fundraiser, all proceeds support Maestro Domingo’s artistic vision and the company’s outreach and education programs. Each year, the elegant black-tie event includes intimate formal dinners hosted by ambassadors throughout the city, followed by a gala at an embassy where guests delight in an evening of dancing, entertainment and surprises.

Founded in 1956, Washington National Opera is recognized as one of America’s leading opera companies. Under the leadership of Plácido Domingo since 1996, WNO continues to build on its rich history by offering operas of the highest artistic quality, balancing popular grand opera with new and infrequently performed works. In addition, WNO fulfills its mission by serving as a vital resource throughout the DC metro area, bringing opera to a broad and diverse public through its award-winning education and community programs. Additional details about The Opera Ball will be announced in Spring 2011.