“There came a moment in my career as a globe-trotting director when I experienced an overwhelming feeling that I wanted to give back to the industry and to the arts in America. This came at the moment I was invited to lead the Glimmerglass Opera (and later renamed Festival) and I seized the challenge. For the last 12 years I am honored to have led WNO and GGF. I have overseen more than 100 productions and helped to build the next generations of artists and administrators.”
– Francesca Zambello
The Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center
Artistic Director
2012-present with contract through 2027
Artistic Consultant
2010-2012
The Glimmerglass Festival
Artistic & General Director
2011-2023
As a director of the Glimmerglass Festival, Francesca was proud to be transforming the lives of children, youth, and new professionals in all aspects of theater through her many apprenticeship programs. She currently is the General Director, emerita of the Glimmerglass Festival and the Artistic Director of the Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center.
The San Francisco Opera
Artistic Consultant
2005-2010
Skylight Opera Theater – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Co-Artistic Director
1987-1992
Opera Colorado
Associate Founder
1981-1984