Pegasus Opera Company is thrilled to be selected as one of the new Arts Council England (ACE) National Portfolio Organisations (NPO).
Formed in 1992 by Jamaican opera singer Lloyd Newton, Pegasus Opera Company has worked tirelessly to challenge the perceptions of opera in underrepresented communities and showcase talent from diverse backgrounds. Our company motto ‘Harmony in Diversity’ demonstrates our core aim, that opera stages should be representative of the multicultural society in which we live, and that everybody should have the opportunity to experience and perform opera, no matter their background.
To support its artistic ambitions and core aims, Pegasus invests in talent development, providing mentoring and support to both established and emerging artists, especially those of African and Asian heritage. Since 2021, its Opera Mentoring Programme has been delivered in partnership with Glyndebourne.
Alongside producing full-scale opera productions, concerts and talent development initiatives, Pegasus Opera Company runs a highly-regarded learning and participation programme, delivering workshops and programmes to around 1,000 school children annually across the London Borough of Lambeth. It also runs a thriving intergenerational community choir, which following COVID-19 has been working in a hybrid in-person/digital format, promoting positive health, wellbeing and community cohesion to its members through the power of singing.
On the announcement of receiving NPO status, Artistic Director Alison Buchanan said:
‘I am thrilled that Pegasus has received NPO status from Arts Council England. This is a fulfilment of the dream of our founder Lloyd Newton. Since his passing we have worked tirelessly to be change makers in our industry: developing partnerships with opera companies, mentoring and supporting our artists, creating trailblazing concerts that celebrate the music of diverse composers, producing opera with diverse casts, orchestra and creatives. I am thankful to our family of singers, the Pegasus board and staff, and for everyone who has supported and helped us to continue Lloyd’s legacy.’
Executive Director Sonia Hyams said:
‘We are delighted that Arts Council England have recognised the value of our groundbreaking work. As a National Portfolio Organisation, we will now be able to expand our artistic, talent development and learning and participation programmes across the nation, enabling us to inspire many more people through our work.’
Chair of the Board of Trustees Nicholas Boyd-Vaughan said:
‘This is undoubtedly one of the most important moments in Pegasus’ 30-year history. Over the past five years, the board and staff have worked exceptionally hard to transform Pegasus into a dynamic and resilient organisation, and have set into motion an ambitious strategy that will see us spread our wings and reach new heights. I am incredibly proud of our exceptional team for their unwavering belief in our mission, and for approaching everything they do with such passion and dedication.’
