About WGO
The Wichita Grand Opera Enriching Lives Through Inspirational Productions
At its founding, Wichita Grand Opera became the largest professional opera company in the state of Kansas. From our home at the Wichita Center for Performing Arts Theater (WCPA), we create inspirational productions of great works of art to enrich our community. We strive to develop artists, programming, and activities to reinvigorate opera in the 21st century.
Objectives
- Engaging superb artists to create and perform in fully-staged operas and gala concerts
- Enhance our professional orchestra and chorus of locally-based musicians and to be the foundation of Wichita Grand Opera productions
- Providing performance and professional development opportunities for Kansans and other regionally-based opera singers
- Offering educational and outreach experience to students and communities throughout the region
Mission Statement
To produce opera and opera education programs at the highest artistic level in order to enrich the cultural lives of Kansans
Our Team
A dynamic group of dedicated professionals, united by a shared passion for excellence and innovation, committed to driving success and delivering outstanding results
Dr. Dennis Ross, MD
Dr. Dennis Ross MD is a distinguished nephrologist, educator, author, and researcher in Wichita Kansas with four decades of experience in Nephrology and Internal Medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, completed his internal medicine residency with the University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita. Beyond his medical career, he has been instrumental in enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the community. His dedication to the arts has helped ensure the continued success and growth of this esteemed local institution.
Whitney Reader
Whitney Reader (General and Artistic Director) is a native Wichitan. He recently returned to the USA after a long residence in Europe where he has served opera houses, festivals, and orchestras in Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Italy, Denmark, Spain, Oman and Cyprus. He received his training at Wichita State University and is a former member of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra. In January of 2022, he returned to Kansas.
Andrew Hernandez
Andrew Hernandez, the Director of Operations at the Wichita Grand Opera, is also a talented baritone-bass. Originally from California, Andrew attended Fresno State University and later Wichita State University, where he earned a master's degree in opera performance. With over 15 years of performance experience, Andrew is equally comfortable behind the scenes and on stage. He has found a wonderful fit with the Wichita Grand Opera.
