Augusta Opera To Reorganize

Augusta, GA—Disappointing news for opera fans in Augusta. The board of the Augusta Opera has voted to cancel its March, and possibly its May performance. The board’s president says even if and when they sell out performances, it’s not enough money to cover their operation expenses.

$50 million is listed in President Obama’s stimulus package to fund the National Endowment for the Arts, which helps fund organizations like the Augusta Opera. City leaders say during tough economic times, it’s even harder for governments to support quality of life initiatives.

“Unfortunately, it’s a must-have vs. nice-to-have. The nice-to-have is what makes quality of life great but the must-have is what we’ve got to fund. It’s an issue we fight every time we do a budget,“ says Fred Russell, City Administrator.

Part of the Opera board met Tuesday night to talk about reorganizing and what to do about reimbursing ticket holders. The board president tells WJBF News Channel 6 ticket holders may be offered in-kind tickets to the Augusta Ballet or the Augusta Symphony.

We’ll continue following this story and let you know what they decide.