Dallas Opera Appointed David Lomelí as General Director
The company has named the former administrator as its new leader as it announces the 2026-2027 season.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Opera
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The Dallas Opera has selected David Lomelí to serve as its new general director and CEO. Lomelí returns to lead the organization following the departure of former director Ian Derrer to the Canadian Opera Company.
Why it matters
Lomelí hopes to grow the Dallas Opera audience by focusing on culturally diverse programming and increasing the frequency of large-scale works by composers such as Strauss and Wagner.
The company reported ticket prices for The Elixir of Love ranging from $19 to $475. Productions such as The Cunning Little Vixen are listed with a performance runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes.
The players
David Lomelí
He is the newly appointed general director and CEO of the Dallas Opera.
Ian Derrer
He is the former leader of the Dallas Opera who left to head the Canadian Opera Company.
Matthew Epstein
He serves as a consultant for the Dallas Opera.
The details
Lomelí brings a 12-year history with the Dallas Opera to his new executive role, succeeding Ian Derrer. The company plans to leverage co-productions with other houses while expanding its season through semistaged and concert performances.
Timeline
September 27, 2026: The company presented its Fiesta de l'Ópera.
October 9, 2026: The Dallas Opera season officially opens.
January 30, 2027: The Hart Institute for Women Conductors Showcase takes place.
February 12, 2027: Performances of Puccini's Turandot begin.
March 5, 2027: Performances of Wagner's Lohengrin begin.
Industry Dynamics
The Dallas Opera's ongoing commitment to the Hart Institute for Women Conductors reflects a broader industry shift toward formalizing equity in artistic leadership. By hosting the showcase, the company continues its role in fostering diversity within the competitive landscape of professional opera.
Patrons can expect varying price tiers for the upcoming 2026-2027 season, with tickets starting at $19. Access to the full season schedule and ticket reservations is available through the company's online portal.
The takeaway
Lomelí's return signals a strategic pivot toward Wagner and Strauss repertoire to differentiate the company in the competitive regional arts market. Audiences should look for an increased focus on co-productions as a primary method for the organization to maintain high-quality staging on a sustainable budget.
Further reading
For more on the latest local productions and organizational changes, explore our Opera section.
More information
View the full season calendar and purchase tickets on the Dallas Opera ticket and information site.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Dallas Morning News.
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