Bold, diverse opera at the heart of Montréal
Opéra de Montréal has deep roots in its home city, where it supports local talent, builds community, and creates one-of-a-kind inclusive experiences – from great classics to daring premieres.
The Opéra de Montréal gives voice not only to singers but to stories. Here, musical worlds come to life through both tradition and innovation, creating spaces for anyone and everyone to feel deeply, together.
Mission/Vision
Opera is transformative. A single evening at the opera can leave us moved, uplifted, and forever changed. At the Opéra de Montréal, opera is for everyone. It is a living, breathing, and constantly evolving art form – an experience that says, “You belong here.”
History
Since 1980, the Opéra de Montréal (OdM) has been creating cutting-edge opera at the heart of its city. After more than 1,200 performances, 120 operas, 70 new productions, and 11 world premieres, the OdM has transformed the opera scene into a place of emotions and new ideas. Its Atelier lyrique program (founded in 1984) trains the next generation of homegrown opera artists.
The OdM builds connections with local artists and explores contemporary stories, giving voice to the realities of today’s society with accessible and socially engaged works. As both a social and a cultural center, the OdM shapes the creators of tomorrow, and its Social Impact and Education department works closely with local communities on a growing number of innovative and inclusive projects. Since 2004, the CoOpéra program has been reaching hundreds of students every year, introducing them to opera through the process of creation. The Opéra de Montréal pushes the boundaries of traditional opera, cultivating a bold and vibrant art form deeply rooted in modern life.
The Heart Behind the Institution
Opéra de Montréal is a passionate and committed team of artists, artisans, technicians and professionals from every background. Together, we strive for excellence, creativity, and humanity as we bring the art of opera to life. Our collaboration creates one-of-a-kind experiences, both on stage and behind the scenes.
Jean-Pierre Primiani
Recognized leader in cultural philanthropy, Mr. Jean-Pierre Primiani becomes the new General Director of the Opéra de Montréal as of November 1, 2025, after having served as Director of Development since 2017. Under his leadership, private fundraising revenues have increased tenfold, now surpassing box office income—positioning the company as a frontrunner in individual philanthropy and laying the groundwork for a major capital campaign. Over the past fifteen years, Mr. Primiani has built a reputation as a tireless relationship builder, an engaged ambassador for the arts, and a pioneer in the field of cultural philanthropy. His experience spans symphonic music, opera, theatre, and dance.
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Michel Beaulac
Michel Beaulac was born in Montreal and started studying piano as a teenager. After studies in education and some ten years as a teacher, he furthered his studies at UQÀM in art and voice. A McAbbey Foundation grantee in sculpture, he exhibited his work on the Montreal university circuit, in Maisons de la culture, and at the Galerie du Petit Musée in Quebec City.
His passion for opera led him to host a radio show, where he was noticed by the Opéra de Montréal’s director at the time. Invited to join the company’s communications team in 1989, he went on to take up various other functions at the company: set and costume designer, assistant to the Artistic Director, Artistic Administrator from 1997 to 2007, and finally Artistic Director.
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Social Impact and Education
Activities for schools
School programs are available for all grade levels, drawing on the OdM’s artistic programming – introductions to opera, creative workshops, and more.
