Fundraising Goal: $5,000
$5,897
raised from
75
unique donors
A fundraiser for: OperaDelaware
Organization Mission:
OperaDelaware produces bold, vibrant, and creative performances that empower artists, enrich the community, entertain audiences, and encourage curiosity.
I’m Kerriann Otano.
I’m fundraising for
OperaDelaware.
OperaDelaware has been part of the artistic heartbeat of the First State for over 80 years, but what makes me believe so deeply in this organization is the future we are building together. Through our groundbreaking Company Artist Model, we are redefining what it means to be an opera company in America. We empower artists not only to perform, but to self-produce, curate, and dream boldly. We value them as full employees and creative partners, investing in their healthcare, their leadership, and their ideas beyond the stage. As a former freelance opera singer, I know how rare and transformative that kind of support is. It fills me with pride to help lead a company that is actively creating a more sustainable and inspiring path for artists.
What excites me just as much is how deeply OperaDelaware shows up for our community. Pop-Up Opera brings live music directly into neighborhoods across Delaware, welcoming new audiences and reminding people that opera belongs to everyone. This May, we will host the Opera America Conference in Wilmington, welcoming opera professionals from across the country. The national spotlight is turning toward Delaware, and it is a powerful affirmation that the innovative, community-centered work happening here truly matters.
And this is just the beginning. I believe wholeheartedly in our vision to establish a vibrant artistic hub in Wilmington, a true homebase where artists can build meaningful careers, collaborate across disciplines, and thrive within a community that values creativity and connection. Imagine a space alive with music, mentorship, experimentation, and belonging. Your gift during Do More 24 helps make that vision real. It supports working artists, expands access to the arts, and strengthens a future where opera is joyful, relevant, and deeply rooted in community. I am so proud of what we are building, and I would be honored to have you join us in doing more for Delaware.
About OperaDelaware
Do More 24 2026!!
OperaDelaware is thrilled to invite you to join us in revolutionizing the way artists are supported in the performing arts industry. On March 5-6, during Do More 24 Delaware 2026, we’re asking for your support to help fund the Company Artist Model—a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at transforming the “starving artist” stereotype into one of empowerment, stability, and creative fulfillment.
OperaDelaware is thrilled to invite you to join us in revolutionizing the way artists are supported in the performing arts industry. On March 5-6, during Do More 24 Delaware 2026, we’re asking for your support to help fund the Company Artist Model—a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at transforming the “starving artist” stereotype into one of empowerment, stability, and creative fulfillment.
This innovative program is designed to make Delaware a cultural hub, offering artists full-time employment with salary, benefits, and meaningful roles beyond the stage. By recognizing and leveraging the unique skill sets of artists—including creativity, passion, and adaptability—we are redefining what it means to work in the arts while fortifying our company’s operational strength.
Our Company Artist Model has received impressive recognition both regionally and nationally. OperaDelaware was one of three finalists in the Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation’s 2024 Reinventing Delaware competition with the Company Artist Model. This achievement highlights the urgency of addressing the employment struggles of professional artists, with over 95% of them working outside their discipline due to the unstable nature of the freelance economy. Together, we can lead the way toward a brighter, more sustainable future for artists in the United States.
Your donation during Do More 24 Delaware will help OperaDelaware take the next step in ensuring this visionary program has a long-term impact on the First State—one that not only empowers our artists but also strengthens our entire community. Every gift brings us closer to becoming a national model for the arts sector, showcasing Delaware as a beacon of creativity and innovation.
Join us today in transforming the future of opera and the arts. Your generosity can make history.
Donate March 5-6 beginning at 6PM, and help us build a stronger, more vibrant artistic community in Delaware. Together, we’ll DO MORE for the arts!
Organization Details
Name:
OperaDelaware
EIN: 51-6018055
Street Address:
4 South Poplar Street
City: Wilmington
State: DE Zip: 19801
Counties Served: New Castle, Kent, Sussex
Office Locations: Wilmington
Sectors: Arts & Culture, DDOA Grantee, BIPOC-Led (Sr/Exec Leadership)
Recent Donations
- Brianna HancinS $25
- Aleks Romano $25
- Ryan Otano $25
- Haley Belcher $25
- Peter Gordon $50
- Limmie Pulliam $100
- Anonymous $25
- Peter Campbell $50
- Aaron Dworkin $50
- Brian Myer $25
