For those who enjoy going to the opera, the home of the famed organization is packing its bags and leaving Lincoln Center. But the musicians are not taking the move lightly. The New York City Opera musicians spent Thursday, June 30th protesting a possible move from the David H. Koch Theater in Lincoln Center. The General Manager, George Steel was behind the move which has yet to announce the new location.

Musicians of the prestigious arts group wasted no time in demonstrating against the move. They passed out flyers saying “Save the People’s Opera” while playing music from key operas in full black tie attire. It was for good reason, since the New York City Opera has called the Lincoln Center location home for almost sixty years.

Among the many upset musicians, a violinist named Clair Chan spoke out against the proposed move and said “If he’s going to lead us down this path we need a replacement. Who is actually controlling New York City Opera? Is it George or members of the board? The announcement to leave Lincoln Center took us all by surprise.”

Orchestra committee chair Gail Kruvand added ”We feel that George Steel is attempting to turn the New York City Opera into a minor presenting organization, and we are a major cultural institution in the City of New York, and in the United States and in the world, world-renowned. And we deserve to stay in a world-renowned performing arts venue.”

Although the opera seems to be having trouble paying their bills, President Tino Gagliardi of the Associated Musicians of Greater New York still believes that ”The biggest fear that we all have right now is that we’re going to lose an icon at Lincoln Center, and that City Opera will be no more.” 

Wherever the New York City Opera ends up, hopefully it will not lead to the end of this great cultural experience in New York City. This neighborhood still offers so much for those who are looking for an arts-based outing and a new home! Call 877-852-6636 for more information.