Santa Ana, California, November 4, 2008 --- Opera Pacific’s Board of Directors has cancelled the remainder of its 2008-9 Season, announced Robert C. Jones, President & CEO of the company. This action has resulted in a substantial reduction in staff. Due to the downturn in contributions to the organization that is a direct reflection of the challenging financial times the world is facing, Opera Pacific is forced to cancel The Grapes of Wrath January 21, 25, 29 and 31, 2009, and Salome March 21, 25, 29 and 31.

Jones said, “We could not responsibly project raising the amount of money needed to fully fund the remaining operas for this season. Most people don’t realize how much the presentation of grand opera depends on private donations. A full 60 percent of our operating budget comes from the generosity of our donors. With the current state of the economy, many of our large donors were less able to support us at the levels they have over the past few years.”

Jones said, “Our building, almost 20,000 square feet of office, rehearsal, shop and storage space has been listed for sale in an attempt to generate cash flow. The building has not yet sold, and therefore we have lost the race with time.”

During its 23 seasons, Opera Pacific established itself as one of the finest professional opera companies in the nation. Opera Pacific's main stage productions, extensive community outreach programs, and energetic Guild Alliance combined to create a cultural resource for Southern California. More than 670,000 people enjoyed Opera Pacific's productions at the Orange County Performing Arts Center, while over 575,000 young people discovered the world of opera through the company's in-school presentations, Student Previews, and nationally recognized Opera Camps. In addition to the "grand opera" repertory, Opera Pacific responded to the need for strong, professional productions of classic American musical theatre and European operetta.

Opera Pacific appreciates the audience and donors who make up its patron family, for all they have done over the years to ensure quality programming