VAOPERA Executive and Leadership Team

Peggy Dye, the General Director Chief Executive Officer at VAOPERA, directs the overarching artistic vision and operational framework for the Commonwealth's official opera company. Overseeing the production of classic operas and community-focused events, the General Director Chief Executive Officer ensures that artistic excellence remains the primary driver of organizational success. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and securing the financial resources necessary to sustain high-quality performances. By championing initiatives like student nights, Peggy Dye expands the reach of the company to diverse audiences across Virginia. The General Director Chief Executive Officer collaborates closely with the Board to align long-term goals with the evolving needs of opera enthusiasts. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the General Director Chief Executive Officer maintains the fiscal health required to support ambitious artistic programming and community engagement efforts throughout the region.

John-Paul Schaefer, the General Director and Chief Executive Officer at VAOPERA, architects the strategic growth and institutional stability of the organization. Focusing on the expansion of individual giving and corporate sponsorships, the General Director and Chief Executive Officer secures the capital essential for maintaining the company's status as a premier cultural institution. This role requires constant coordination with artistic directors to ensure that the performance calendar resonates with both traditional patrons and young professionals. John-Paul Schaefer drives the implementation of innovative outreach programs, including Pride Night at the Opera, to broaden the demographic appeal of the company. By optimizing internal operational efficiencies, the General Director and Chief Executive Officer enables the artistic team to focus entirely on creative production. This leadership position demands a balance of fiscal discipline and creative advocacy, ensuring that the company remains a vital, sustainable force within the Virginia arts community.

Elsa Ma, the Regional President, Board, Northern Virginia at VAOPERA, directs all governance and community development activities within the northern region of the state. Overseeing local engagement strategies, the Regional President, Board, Northern Virginia ensures that the company's mission reaches diverse populations through targeted outreach and regional partnerships. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with local donors and arts advocates to bolster support for upcoming performance seasons. Elsa Ma coordinates with the central leadership team to align regional activities with the broader organizational goals of the company. By facilitating community events and student-focused programming, the Regional President, Board, Northern Virginia strengthens the presence of the company in key metropolitan areas. This position requires a deep understanding of the local cultural landscape to effectively promote the value of opera to new audiences. Through consistent advocacy, the Regional President, Board, Northern Virginia secures the regional backing necessary for long-term artistic success.

Amber Taylor-Reeves, the President, Virginia Opera Guild at VAOPERA, leads the volunteer and advocacy efforts that support the company's artistic mission. Overseeing the Guild's fundraising and community-building activities, the President, Virginia Opera Guild ensures that the organization maintains a strong grassroots connection to its audience base. This leadership role involves mobilizing volunteers for special events and coordinating educational outreach that introduces classic opera to new community members. Amber Taylor-Reeves works in tandem with the executive team to translate organizational goals into actionable volunteer projects. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and passion for the arts, the President, Virginia Opera Guild drives participation in programs like student nights. This position requires exceptional organizational skills to manage the diverse activities of the Guild while maintaining alignment with the company's professional standards. Through dedicated service, the President, Virginia Opera Guild enhances the overall impact of the company across the Commonwealth.

Tiana Smith-Cluff, the Regional President, Board, Central Virginia at VAOPERA, directs the strategic governance and regional outreach initiatives throughout the central portion of the state. Overseeing the development of local partnerships, the Regional President, Board, Central Virginia ensures that the company's artistic offerings remain accessible and relevant to the central Virginia community. This leadership role involves managing regional donor relations and promoting the company's diverse range of performances to local stakeholders. Tiana Smith-Cluff collaborates with the Board to implement initiatives that increase attendance among young professionals and community members. By focusing on regional growth and audience development, the Regional President, Board, Central Virginia strengthens the overall market position of the company. This position requires a proactive approach to community engagement, ensuring that the company remains a central pillar of the local arts scene. Through effective regional leadership, the Regional President, Board, Central Virginia supports the broader mission of the company.