Washington Concert Opera Names New Executive Director

The Board of Directors of Washington Concert Opera is pleased to announce the appointment of Ursula M. Kuhar as its new Executive Director, effective July 1, 2015. Dr. Kuhar, who was selected after an intensive national search, brings arts management and opera community experience to Washington Concert Opera (WCO).

"The board believes Ms. Kuhar's skills in the areas of development and fund-raising, marketing, strategic planning, artistic and business operations, together with her energy and enthusiasm, will help us grow Washington Concert Opera as it approaches its 30th anniversary, while maintaining its reputation for artistic excellence," says Melissa Rhea, WCO President and chair of the board.

"I am delighted to welcome Ursula Kuhar as the new Executive Director of Washington Concert Opera and look forward to our artistic partnership and collaboration," says Antony Walker, WCO Artistic Director. "Ursula's Background and skills are sure to enhance the WCO experience for our existing audiences and help us attract a new generation of patrons."

"Washington Concert Opera is an important and vital part of the Washington, DC arts community, with a great commitment to the operatic tradition, artistic excellence, and the championing of the next great generation of artists," says Kuhar. "I look forward to working with Maestro Antony Walker and the WCO board of directors to build upon WCO's excellent reputation, secure a stronger foundation for future growth, and expand the audience for this glorious art form."

Dr. Kuhar comes to WCO after having served for the last four year as Director and Assistant Professor of Arts Management at Sweet Briar College in Virginia. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Kuhar was educated at Butler University (B.S. in Arts Administration and Master of Music), and the Jacobs School of Music of Indiana University (Doctor of Music in Voice). In addition, Dr. Kuhar was a regional finalist in the 2011 Metropolitan National Council Auditions.

Dr. Kuhar will succeed Nancy Petrisko as WCO's Executive Director. Ms. Petrisko has provided WCO with outstanding leadership and management during the last three seasons. She will be leaving as of June 30th, to return with her family to California, where she has spent a large portion of her professional career. She has accepted the position of Director of Development of the Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts at the University of California-Davis, and will assume that position as of July 1st.

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