Our Story
Founded in 1998 by Dr. Daniel Kleinknecht, Cedar Rapids Opera is one of Iowa's two professional opera companies. With a commitment to excellence, the company produces between three to five operatic performances each year, including a special outreach opera for elementary schools. The nationally respected Young Artist Program enhances the opera chorus with pre-professional singers, providing invaluable experience alongside seasoned professionals. In 2022, the Lift Every Voice: Artist in Residency Program was launched, placing teaching artists in high schools to work with underserved students, fostering a love for the arts.