Focus Group Event Summary: Shaping the Future of Operanauts, Inc.
In late September, Operanauts convened a focus group event to reflect on our mission and chart our path forward. The gathering featured two engaging sessions led by expert facilitators Julia Ibarra and Dana Lichtstrahl: one on self-compassion and resilience, drawing from lessons of apartheid and our past projects in Kinshasa, and another on refining Operanauts’ strategic direction.
The group identified two key priorities:
1. Training Programs: Expanding our pre-production training and Mozart chamber opera rehearsals, alongside strengthening our Opera Artist Residency Program. These initiatives lie at the heart of our mission to create transformative opera experiences.
2. Volunteer Engagement: We need U.S. volunteers for vital tasks like mailing campaigns, enhancing digital outreach, and building connections through peer advocacy.
The event concluded with a wine-and-cheese reception attended by 25 supporters. While informal, the reception fostered meaningful connections among attendees passionate about Operanauts’ mission.
We are inspired by the collective insight and commitment shared during this focus group. To achieve these priorities, we are calling on our network of philanthropic leaders and music field experts to join us in cultivating the resources, talent, and outreach necessary to grow Operanauts’ vision for cultural exchange and social good through opera.