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Nathan DePoint
Senior Director of Artistic Operations at Austin Opera
Professional Background
Nathan DePoint is an esteemed figure in the world of opera, best known for his impressive nearly fifteen years of operatic experience both on and off the stage. Today, he fulfills his passion for the arts as the Director of Operations at Austin Opera, where he has become a vital part of the innovative leadership team headed by Annie Burridge. In this newly created role, Nathan’s multifaceted responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of managerial best practices and processes, as well as exploring opportunities for artistic expansion and community collaboration within Austin. Nathan’s role emphasizes not only operational excellence but also a commitment to enriching the local cultural fabric through the arts.
Prior to joining Austin Opera, Nathan served as the Director of Artistic Administration at Fort Worth Opera for nearly ten years. His tenure at Fort Worth Opera was marked by significant contributions to the company’s artistic vision and endeavors. In this role, he was instrumental in overseeing the artistic product and had a hand in the development of new works premiered by the company. Nathan’s responsibilities encompassed casting and season planning, budgeting, and the overall management of artistic and creative teams. He was particularly known for his work on the Frontiers initiative, an annual competition that champions new compositions and showcases innovative works. Among his notable achievements during his time at Fort Worth Opera was the successful stewardship of the acclaimed project JFK, composed by David T. Little with a libretto by Royce Vavrek. The project not only garnered national attention but also received critical acclaim and was set to premiere at Opéra de Montréal in January 2018. Nathan’s forward-thinking approach to opera has significantly impacted the artistic landscape, making him a respected figure in the industry.
Throughout his career, Nathan has played an active role in shaping the future of opera through his involvement with various organizations. He has served as a panelist for Opera America, engaging with other leaders in the field to advance the opera community. Additionally, he has been a judge for the Metropolitan National Council Auditions, helping to identify and promote new talent within the opera world. His dedication to cultivating the next generation of opera leaders was recognized in 2012 when he was named one of the inaugural members of Opera America’s Leadership Intensive Program.
Education and Achievements
Nathan DePoint’s educational background is firmly rooted in music and vocal performance. He earned a Master of Music in Opera Performance from Wichita State University, where he honed his craft and developed a deep understanding of the operatic genre. Prior to that, he received his Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance from John Brown University, laying the foundation for his future success in the industry. Nathan’s academic pursuits have equipped him with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the opera world, both as an artist and an administrator.
His transition from an opera singer to a leader in the administrative side of the arts exemplifies his versatility and commitment to the opera community. He has performed over twenty roles across the United States, showcasing his talent and passion for operatic performance.
Notable Contributions and Partnerships
Nathan’s work extends beyond administration; he has consistently been an advocate for collaboration and community engagement through the arts. At Fort Worth Opera, he not only managed existing talent but also played a pivotal role in commissioning new operatic works, including significant projects such as A Wrinkle in Time, composed by Laura Kaminsky, and various workshops for emerging talents. His role as a curator for initiatives like Frontiers emphasizes his commitment to fostering new ideas and voices in opera.
His collaborative spirit is matched by his extensive administrative experience, having held several key positions within Fort Worth Opera, including Company Manager, Annual Fund Manager, Development Artist Liaison, and Development Coordinator. These roles reflect Nathan’s comprehensive grasp of how artistic operations intersect with fundraising and community engagement, allowing him to drive strategic initiatives that support the long-term growth of opera in Texas and beyond.
In his current role at Austin Opera as Senior Director of Artistic Operations, Nathan continues to inspire and lead efforts to enhance the operatic experience, ensuring that the company remains a vibrant part of the Austin community. His reputation as a knowledgeable and dedicated arts professional has undoubtedly made him a sought-after leader in the operatic space.
With a focus on the future, Nathan DePoint remains committed to expanding the reach of opera, exploring innovative partnerships, and crafting experiences that resonate within diverse communities. His strategic vision and ability to connect people through music continue to define his career and make a lasting impact within the arts world.
Achievements
- Over 15 years of operatic experience, both on-stage and in administration.
- Director of Operations at Austin Opera, responsible for managerial best practices and community collaborations.
- Former Director of Artistic Administration at Fort Worth Opera, where he oversaw artistic product, season planning, and new works.
- Successfully managed the premiere of the opera JFK by David T. Little and Royce Vavrek.
- Involved in commissioning significant works such as A Wrinkle in Time and workshops for new compositions.
- Panelist for Opera America and judge for Metropolitan National Council Auditions.
- Inaugural member of Opera America’s Leadership Intensive Program in 2012, aimed at cultivating future opera leaders.
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