Words by Nathan Jacques. Images courtesy of Virginia Opera.
The Hampton Roads region is a place of staggering cultural diversity, a “melting pot,” if you will, that provides an array of arts-centric experiences and haven for both locals and visitors from all over the world to create, and to enjoy what others have created. Virginia Opera, while fully in the thick of what is nothing short of a revolution in arts presentation through their current Stayin’ Alive Alternate Fall series initiative, is also preparing to welcome yet another brilliant creative mind to the Hampton Roads arts community—as their new General Director and CEO. Peggy Kriha Dye, a Minnesota native, will take the helm of the beloved statewide opera company beginning on October 19, 2020.
Kriha Dye, no stranger to the timeless art of opera, is a graduate of Saint Cloud State University, Manhattan School of Music, and the Julliard Opera Center. Having graced over one-hundred stages across the globe during her incredible career as a soprano, she brings to the table not only a full understanding of performance, but a remarkable knowledge and prowess in the way of arts administration as well. A recipient of numerous accolades, including Musical America’s 2018 Professionals of the Year “Movers and Shakers Edition” award, Kriha Dye has, until her appointment with the VO, faithfully served Ohio’s renowned Opera Columbus organization through many key roles: Director of Education and Community Programming (2011-2014), Artistic Director (2014-2017), and, finally, General Director and CEO (2017-2020). Under her leadership, Opera Columbus flourished and became widely known for operatic excellence; acclaimed for its skillful presentation of both new artistic works and commissioned pieces, in addition to beloved classics in collaboration with a host of national and international partners. In addition to these wondrous achievements, Kriha Dye continues to serve on both the Board of Trustees of Opera America and the Women’s Opera Network.
Of her appointment, Kriha Dye offers: “My thanks to the Virginia Opera and its Board and my good colleague and predecessor Russell Allen. It is an honor to be chosen to now lead the Virginia Opera in the next exciting chapter of its storied statewide history. I am humbled and excited to join the valuable leadership, staff, essential and ever-vital artists and creative partners— and Artistic Director, Maestro Adam Turner—in looking toward the Virginia Opera’s 50th Anniversary year in 2025. To be certain, as we will continue to face the many challenges that the current climate presents in tirelessly championing the performing arts that we love and hold so close, it is with equal certainty that we will find our best in meeting and joyfully prevailing in those challenges. I look forward to seeing you in Norfolk, Richmond, and Fairfax in October.”
With only a month until another chapter in its storied history begins, Virginia Opera continues to deliver the utmost in opera entertainment to communities across Virginia through Stayin’ Alive – Virginia Opera’s Alternate Fall. More information about the organization’s mission to inspire hearts and minds throughout the Commonwealth through the magic of music can be found on their official website: https://vaopera.org/stayin-alive/
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