Opera Carolina makes historic hire for director

OPERA CAROLINA

Shanté Williams, Opera Carolina’s new general director, is the first Black person and woman to lead the Charlotte-based company. Williams succeeds James Meena, who will remain as artistic director and principal conductor.

There’s change at the top of Opera Carolina.

Shanté Williams will become the company’s general director starting July 1, making her the first Black person or woman to do so in its history. Williams, a venture capitalist and CEO of Black Pearl Vision and its parent company, Black Pearl Global Investments, succeeds James Meena, who will remain as artistic director and principal conductor.

“Opera Carolina’s remarkable 75-year history of excellence in opera, education and community leadership make it one of the premier arts organizations in North Carolina,” Williams said in a statement. “Having been fortunate enough to serve on the board of directors, I am especially honored to carry the organization’s remarkable reputation forward.

“I look forward to leading the business operations as Maestro Meena continues to serve as artistic director. With a dynamic staff and passionate board, we will embrace and expand the company’s role as a leader in Charlotte’s artistic community and an agent for healing, inspiration and joy.”

As CEO of Black Pearl Global a $25 million venture capital fund, Williams’ company has invested in health, finance and real estate. Her appointment expands the opera company’s leadership roster.

“On behalf of the entire board of directors, I am thrilled Dr. Williams is joining us as our next general director,” said board chair Carol Kendrick said in a statement. “As a Charlotte native, she brings to the role a track record of success in fundraising and business, and we were collectively impressed by her extensive credentials and past support of Opera Carolina. We are confident we have found the right person to lead and inspire our community as we emerge from the pandemic and raise Opera Carolina to the next level of excellence.”

Denyce Graves, one of the best singers of her generation and star of Opera Carolina’s production of “The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson,” praised Williams’ appointment. Williams helped bring the production to the stage and connecting Graves, a mezzo-soprano, for the lead role.

“I am confident that under her guidance, Opera Carolina will continue to flourish and achieve great success,” Graves said. “Her commitment to excellence matched with her unwavering determination will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the company and its future."

Barbara Frittoli, who stared in last season’s “Pagliacci with Cavalleria Rusticana,” agreed.

“I don't think there is a better quote than Jack Welch's to describe it: ‘Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision and relentlessly drive it to completion,’” she said.

Opera Carolina’s 75th season launches on Oct. 30 with a benefit concert featuring international vocalist Andrea Bocelli.

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