“Opera Philadelphia continues to set new expectations for opera,” the City Council’s resolution read, “for how the arts can be an economic driver, elevate the City’s global profile, invigorate the community through creative place making and educational initiatives, and attract artistry, attendance and philanthropy from outside of Philadelphia.” 

Quite a mouthful, and boy were we blushing!

Councilwoman Bass and Councilmen Allan Domb and Mark Squilla all spoke on our behalf before David Devan accepted the great recognition. 

“This opera company loves Philadelphia,” Devan said. “We love how Philadelphia’s at the intersection of sophistication and grit, and we look forward to taking that energy and that work and representing our city internationally and being ambassadors for the many great things happening in Philly. And we will wear this city with pride on our way to London!”

Of course, we weren’t the only ones to be recognized at City Council Thursday. The NCAA Champion Villanova Wildcats and Julia R. Masterman School’s Odyssey of the Mind team were also honored. It was such a pleasure to be recognized with such wonderful Philly organizations – plus, we got to mingle with Villanova Head Coach Jay Wright and senior members of the Villanova men’s basketball team!

We can’t thank Councilwoman Bass and City Council enough for presenting us with this honor. We hope to make the city proud this Sunday, May 15 at the International Opera Awards in London, England.