The Middle Ground

From Center Stage to the CEO’s Office: Cecilia Violetta López and the Future of Opera in Las Vegas

Tom Letizia

On today’s episode of The Middle Ground with Tom Letizia, we step into the world of grand voices, timeless stories, and modern leadership in the arts. Our featured guest, Cecilia Violetta López, the internationally acclaimed soprano and newly appointed General Director and CEO of Opera Las Vegas, shares her remarkable journey — from growing up in Idaho farm fields to performing on the world’s great stages and now leading Nevada’s premier opera company.

Cecilia opens up about her vision for Opera Las Vegas, how she plans to bring new audiences to the art form, and why opera remains one of the most powerful storytelling mediums in the world. Joining her in studio is fellow soprano Katherine Whyte, a celebrated performer known for her grace and artistry on both national and international stages. Together, the two discuss what it means to balance tradition with innovation — and why Las Vegas is becoming an unexpected but exciting hub for classical performance.

Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation about passion, perseverance, and leadership in the performing arts — a must-listen for opera lovers, music fans, and anyone who believes in the enduring power of creativity.