By 1994 Opera Hamilton had established itself as a strong artistic presence within the Hamilton community and surrounding area. During the 1994–95 season, Canadian Ken Freeman was hired as the company’s first General Director. In the interests of promoting community partnership and with a view to harnessing the positive momentum already established by the company, Opera Hamilton became affiliated with Kitchener-Waterloo Opera in order to present opera productions in that community as well. In 1995, Opera Hamilton was re-incorporated as Opera Ontario, Inc., being separately marketed as “Opera Hamilton” and “Kitchener-Waterloo Opera.”

In 2004 Edmonton native David Speers became the company’s General and Artistic Director, having held the post previously with both the Calgary Opera (1988–98) and the Arizona Opera (1998-2004).

Beginning his 10th season, David Speers has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Opera Hamilton organization. He has seen the company through a period of great change and his vision for the future of the company has been integral to its ongoing regeneration. Mr. Speers continues to develop and implement a new Strategic Plan, including the re-branding of the new Opera Hamilton as it re-emerges with a fresh identity. He looks forward to dynamic and exciting future seasons and is enthusiastic about developing a renewed sense of partnership with the community and a rebirth of Hamilton’s passion for Opera.

It was with great pleasure and pride that Opera Hamilton celebrated its 30th Anniversary Season in 2009/10. With the 2013/14 Season, the company continues into its fourth decade of presenting world-class opera productions, and it is clear that Opera matters in Hamilton and the surrounding communities. The company takes great pride in impacting the regional arts scene and the local economy.

Over the years Opera Hamilton has brought some of the greatest International and Canadian artists to their community. This list includes: