Opera Colorado Signs First-Ever Three-Year Collective Bargaining Agreement with AGMA

July 16, 2026 Won Jeong

(Denver, CO = Won Jeong) Opera Colorado has signed its first collective bargaining agreement with the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), marking a milestone for the company’s chorus and AGMA-represented artists after nearly three years of negotiations.

The agreement, announced on July 15, follows negotiations that began in 2023 and was officially ratified by the AGMA Board of Governors on July 13. The three-year contract formally recognizes Opera Colorado’s chorus and AGMA artists as professional performing artists while establishing improved workplace protections, competitive wages, and stronger support for artistic development.

Among the agreement’s key provisions is expanded support for Opera Colorado’s Artists in Residence program. Participants will receive housing, weekly compensation, and opportunities to perform in principal roles, strengthening the company’s commitment to developing emerging opera talent.

“This agreement represents a meaningful step forward for both the company and our artists,” said Opera Colorado President and CEO Barbara Lyn Jamison. “It formally recognizes the essential role our artists play in every production while helping ensure a safe, supportive, and sustainable working environment.”

AGMA Negotiating Committee member Adam Da Ros said the agreement reflects years of collaboration between the union and the company.

“After three years of negotiations, we’ve built an agreement that allows both the artists and Opera Colorado to move forward with mutual trust and a shared commitment to a sustainable future,” Da Ros said.

Opera Colorado will launch its 2026–27 season in September with its annual Artists in Residence Showcase, followed by a production of Macbeth in November. Tickets for the upcoming season are currently on sale.

AGMA represents approximately 7,000 opera singers, dancers, stage directors, and other performing artists across the United States and administers more than 75 collective bargaining agreements nationwide.