“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
The San Francisco Opera
Artistic Consultant
2005-2010
Skylight Opera Theater – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Co-Artistic Director
1987-1992
Opera Colorado
Associate Founder
1981-1984