BUFFALO OPERA UNLIMITED
Western New York's world-class opera company
OUR VISION
Buffalo Opera Unlimited (BOU), Western New York's world-class opera company, leads in nurturing regional professional artists, presents ever-higher quality productions, and fosters the patronage of a continually expanding cross-section of our community. BOU explores old and new repertoire to engage ever-larger audiences in thrilling artisitc performances that convey passion for the beauty of opera.
OUR HISTORY
It starts with the will to make a difference
UNLIMITED
A question we are often asked is why "unlimited" is part of our name. It means that BOU is free to celebrate the power of a variety of musical genres, whether it's opera, jazz or Broadway.
FOUNDED IN 1985
Tim Kennedy was introduced to opera as a youngster in Philadelphia, PA. He was immediately overwhelmed by its power and theatrics. He made a vow to share that experience with as many people as possible and in 1985 he became the founder and artistic director of Buffalo Opera Unlimited. Since then he has given hundreds of local and regional artists the opportunity to perform and experience the passion of opera.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
For more than 35 years, Buffalo Opera Unlimited has shared its passion for opera and other musical genres with increasingly diverse audiences via diverse casts and artistic teams. Holding true to this tradition of diversity, BOU maintains an intentional focus on ensuring inclusion and opportunities regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical ability or socioeconomic background.
Inspired by our African American artistic direcor emeritus, BOU's team creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where our audiences can see themselves reflected in those on stage and in leadership roles. BOU is committed to expanding diverse leadership within our board and staff, strengthening our understanding of equity and diversity by listening to our community's needs, researching rich and diverse artistic prgramming, and providing education and enhancing awareness for our staff and board. We celebrate individuality and invite our diverse community to experience and engage in our musical world.
"Opera tells stories that all ages can relate to:
love, death, revenge...."
Sondra Radvanovsky
