In 2015, Wolf Trap Opera (WTO) embarked on a project to offer time-limited video streams of its productions at The Barns at Wolf Trap. In partnership with
Wolf Trap entered into this important initiative for a series of intersecting rationales:
Schedule & Seating Capacity
The seating capacity of The Barns is so limited, and WTO is not able to present its summer festival productions in a repertory (alternating productions) schedule. Therefore, every season there are colleagues and fans who are not able to attend a performance. The streamed performance allows these constituents to see a representation of the critically acclaimed work that WTO does at The Barns.
Expanding the Canon
WTO is known for championing rare and under-performed gems of the repertoire. The ability to see these rare works is an important tool for companies around the world who might be considering producing them.
Strengthening Portfolios
The Young Artists of the company and the exciting emerging professionals of our artistic teams now have an opportunity to share their work with more people, affording them an important career development tool.
Tantalizing New Fans
While video is not as compelling as the live performances that are an integral part of the opera experience, potential audience members are increasingly looking to digital media to sample art forms before they buy. The WTO stream gives curious music lovers an opportunity to experiment at low risk before investing time and money.