ANDREW JORGENSEN
General Director
Opera Theatre of Saint Louis
Leading one of the top opera houses in the country, which draws superstars and future stars to its stage, Andrew Jorgensen oversees all administrative and artistic activities, including planning future seasons, casting the singers and engaging conductors, directors and other artistic personnel.
When he joined Opera Theatre of Saint Louis in 2018, Jorgensen was no stranger to opera. He was previously the director of artistic planning and operations at Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center, on the artistic staff of The Metropolitan Opera, and began his career in the vocal division of Columbia Artists Management.
Jorgensen grew up in Haddonfield, New Jersey. He completed his undergraduate studies at Harvard University, and earned an MBA at New York University’s Stern School of Business.
Career Path
I’ve been a music lover since I was a child – played the piano, sang in the choir, played trombone in the band. In sixth grade, my dad took me to the Metropolitan Opera to see my first opera, “Aida.” I became totally hooked! In college, I was a member of the Harvard Glee Club. One of our alums introduced me to the field of arts administration, and running an opera company became my dream job.
Biggest Mentor
My first boss was St. Louisan Bill Guerri, who hired me at Columbia Artists, and taught me about how our business worked. In the Metropolitan Opera’s artistic department, I worked for Jonathan Friend, who taught me about singing, repertoire, casting and administration. At WNO, artistic director Francesca Zambello inspired me to apply my personal values to my work in our industry, like equity, inclusion, compassion and humor. And my predecessor at OTSL, Timothy O’Leary, began his transition to WNO before I was appointed here, so we had a unique opportunity to work closely and exchange tips.
Biggest Impact
I am only 35, and hope I haven’t had it yet! But joining the Opera Theatre community has been a true inspiration. I would be honored if I am able to have an impact on helping this special community of arts and opera lovers to thrive and grow.
Future Goals
I hope to continue the work that has made Opera Theatre strong – commitments to exciting young singers and artisans, productions of classic repertoire, and innovative new works that stretch opera’s boundaries while speaking to current issues. We will foster a growing culture of inclusion on and off stage that embraces and empowers artists of color, women and other talented collaborators with unique backgrounds and perspectives.
Favorite Pastime
I love my job, and I wake up each morning excited to come to work, but I also enjoy simple, quiet moments of downtime when I can. My husband, Mark, and I take our dog, Aria, for a walk each morning across Lafayette Square Park to get our coffee. I’m an avid reader, and I try to practice the piano every day. And we love to entertain.
Memorable Life Moment
My husband and I were married in Provincetown, Massachusetts, on a perfect day in June 2015. After the ceremony, we paraded down the main street with our guests to the reception. Sharing that moment with our loved ones, and feeling the outpouring of love from the community was an overwhelmingly joyous moment!
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