OVI annually recognizes outstanding new and long-standing projects from member support groups throughout North America. Endeavors in which volunteers have been intimately involved in the conception and implementation of a project, and which are designed to educate, build audience, support the many facets of a company’s work need to be applauded and shared. So, too, are programs to train volunteers for work with the company and in the community and to attract new members to their support groups.
Applicants can choose between two application formats: a Printable Microsoft Word document to fill out, save, and email in, or an Online Form featuring auto-save, so you can complete your form at your own pace. Your application is automatically forwarded to OVI, with a copy sent to you for your records.
Have a Question for our Project of Special Merit Director? Reach out via email:
Sarajane King: projects@operavolunteers.org
APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2024 AWARDS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL FEBRUARY 1, 2024
Click here to submit an Online Application
Click here to download a Microsoft Word document of the application materials.
Projects of Special Merit nominee Opera on Wheels
submitted by Toledo Opera Guild.
Opera on Wheels
Toledo Opera and Toledo Opera Guild Opera on Wheels This year, Toledo Opera Guild presented Opera on Wheels with a performance of The Pirates of Penzance titled “Pizza and Pirates,” Each year, Toledo Opera’s Resident Artists serve as touring artists for the Opera on Wheels program which travels extensively, bringing live opera to the Toledo area. Annually, the program is performed for 20,000 students. This season, the travel[1]ing production is a newly adapted children’s opera, of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Pen[1]zance. Joshua Borths of Virginia Opera adapted the score and wrote the libretto. Toledo Opera’s James Norman, directed. Founded in 1962, Toledo Opera Guild has played an active role in supporting Toledo Opera’s performances, education, and community outreach programs. It is the mission of the Toledo Opera Guild to promote opera awareness, education, company service, and financial support for Toledo Opera. In the past decade, Toledo Opera Guild has directly contributed over $350,000. This is in addition support such as cast rehearsal dinners (approximately $1,000) along with countless hours of volunteer expertise and help with various tasks. Accepting the award will be Co-president of Toledo Opera Guild Celinda Niggemyer and presenting information about the program in Pittsburgh will be Rachael Cammarn, communications and patron services coordinator for Toledo Opera
2022 Projects of Special Merit
Cincinnati Opera Guild – Artist Hospitality Welcome Bags
The Cincinnati Opera Guild has a signature event called the Meet and Greet, where artists of season productions mingle and 
enjoy treats and drinks with the Guild, staff and invited board members. Due to safety regulations and artists’ union stipulations related to the COVID-19 pandemic, Meet and Greets have been cancelled for the past two years. As Cincinnati Opera returns to indoor performances, 60 members of the Guild will create hospitality bags to welcome the artists. Included will be a personal handwritten note of welcome, gift cards, local restaurant cards, and a signed copy of Rick Pender’s book, “100 Things to do in Cincinnati Before you Die.” Donated tickets to attractions will be made available, and social media posts will be made to market the welcoming theme. (Accepting the Award for Cincinnati Opera Guild was Carlos Garcia León.)
Projects of Special Merit Archives