Sarasota Opera Begins Search For New Executive Director

While the curtain closes on the tenure of executive director as she leaves for a new post, the show must go on for the organization.

Artisitic Director Maestro Victor DeRenzi and Donald Worthington, chairman of the board of Sarasota Opera, have announced this week that search is well underway to replace outgoing Executive Director Susan T. Danis, who will join the Florida Grand Opera as its chief executive and general director.

“This is a time of change for Sarasota Opera,” says DeRenzi. “Susan’s 13 years of work and dedication has left an indelible mark on Sarasota Opera, as well as the Sarasota community, and we are all grateful for her contributions.  Susan has wanted a position as general director of a company for many years, and I know she will take Florida Grand Opera to another level.”

“Sarasota Opera is very fortunate to have a Board with the dedication and expertise to find a replacement for Susan who will continue the growth of the company and be an important part of our community. We enter our 54thseason with a feeling of optimism and excitement for Sarasota Opera’s future.”

Worthington says that the Opera has plenty of "highly qualified applicants."

“We feel certain we can assure our friends and patrons of Sarasota Opera that our highly skilled administrative and production staff will continue with our program in these times of change and that a new executive director will be named without long delay," Worthington says. "We are grateful to Susan Danis for continuing to provide guidance, even as she prepares for a new chapter in her own career.”

Work is in progress on an event this fall that will honor Susan Danis’ 13 years of service to Sarasota Opera, according to the organization. Details will be released as they become available. 

The opera's falls season opens with Verdi’s Rigoletto, on Oct. 26 through Nov, 12, followed by the Sarasota Youth Opera Premiere of Little Nemo in Slumberland on Nov. 10 and 11.