Washington National Opera

Washington National Opera presents classical and contemporary works on the stage of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts throughout the season. The company shares the Opera House with performances carefully staged to match the venue's design and technical capabilities.

The company began in 1957 as the Opera Society of Washington under conductor Paul Callaway and received its national designation through Congress in 2000. This official recognition helped establish the organization as a major cultural institution in the nation's capital.

The opera company supports emerging artists through its training programs while presenting works rooted in American musical traditions. Visitors encounter productions that showcase both the company's commitment to developing new talent and its role in the country's performing arts landscape.

The venue offers good sightlines and acoustics throughout the house, with seating arranged to enhance the operatic experience. Before attending, check on parking and transportation options at the Kennedy Center to arrive with time to spare.

During Plácido Domingo's tenure as general director from 2000 to 2011, the company programmed rare contemporary works including William Bolcom's A View from the Bridge. This period brought experimental and boundary-pushing opera to the stage in ways many patrons had not encountered before.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1957

Website: https://kennedy-center.org/wno/index

GPS coordinates: 38.89583,-77.05556

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52