Do you have space in a guest house or condo that you could donate? Are you looking for a new way to support your local opera company? Then you may be able to help Opera Grand Rapids by hosting visiting mainstage artists, just one of the many costs associated with producing high quality performances in our local community.
Each year, Opera Grand Rapids invites nationally and internationally renowned singers, directors, stage managers, designers, and technical personnel to produce world class opera performances right here in West Michigan. These folks are essential to the mission of our company, and they are the reason we have been able to establish such high quality performances over the past fifty-five years. In order to bring this incredible amount of talent to West Michigan, we of course must provide each artist with safe, comfortable, and convenient housing accommodations during their stay. In a typical season, housing costs for guest artists can easily exceed $50,000–$60,000 by placing them in modest hotels or short-term rental units. In order to help offset this cost, we are calling on our neighbors to provide host housing. Do you have a separate guest suite or apartment? By donating the use of your space by one of our visiting artists, you’ll gain access to special perks while supporting your local opera company—and getting to know one of our amazing guests!
Housing Requirements
- A private bedroom and bathroom. Separate units, such as an over-the-garage apartment or guest house are also acceptable
- Access to kitchen and laundry within the property
- Access to the property—key, garage door opener, etc.
- High-speed internet with Wi-Fi
- All bedding, linens, and cooking utensils provided
What You’ll Get
- Complimentary tickets to the opera! As an OGR Host Family, you are entitled two tickets to the production
- Invitations to exclusive artist receptions and special events
- Recognition as an OGR Host Family in our production playbill and on our website
- The chance to meet, connect with, and build a relationship with one of our incredible visiting artists
2022-2023 Housing Dates
Pirates of Penzance
Artists arrive Tuesday, October 11 and depart Sunday, October 30, 2022
The Last American Hammer
Artists arrive Saturday, February 4 and depart Sunday, February 19, 2023
Aida
Artists arrive Tuesday, April 11 and depart Sunday, May 6, 2023
Testimonials
“We love the opportunity to host opera singers and tech people. We love hearing more about their opera and production experiences—each person has had an interesting and unique career. Each hosting is different, but all of our guests have been enjoyable and dedicated to their craft. We feel very lucky to get to know a little more about the performing arts—especially the magic of opera.”
—OGR Host Family Testimonial
“The artist housing at OGR is unique because it allows us as performers to really get a feel for the town we’re working in. I have enjoyed being able to explore different neighborhoods around GR and have really fallen in love with the city—I’m not sure I would have felt so free and inspired to see the city if I’d not had a neighborhood to stay in. Finally, making acquaintances and forming lasting relationships with the hosts is by far the most unique and impactful opportunity of a homestay. Meeting new supporters of the arts is always a treat and it is a real joy to have a built-in fan club at a new venue!!”
—OGR Artist Testimonial
