Your donation directly supports the establishment of Jerusalem's first standing opera company and Israel's first repertory and ensemble company since 1982. Funds are allocated across several critical areas:
Securing and developing talent for our resident ensemble
Designing our innovative net-zero energy facility
Creating educational outreach programs
Developing operatic productions that honor Jewish musical heritage
In these early stages, donations are especially crucial for building the organizational foundation that will sustain Opera Shalem through its planned 2027-28 inaugural season and beyond.
We are committed to financial transparency and will provide regular updates to our donors on how their contributions are advancing our mission.
Opera Shalem is working toward an inaugural season in 2027-28. Our timeline includes several key phases:
Current phase: Funding and organizational development
2026: Artist recruitment and preliminary programming
2026: Interim facility planning and design
2027: First production
This approach ensures we build a sustainable institution rather than simply producing isolated performances. Throughout this journey, we'll be developing educational initiatives and community partnerships that will help establish Opera Shalem as an integral part of Jerusalem's cultural landscape well before our official opening.
Opera Shalem stands apart through three distinctive elements:
Resident Ensemble Model: Unlike many opera companies, those in Israel in particular, who rely on freelancers and imported talent for limited productions, we're creating a resident ensemble that provides artists with monthly steady salaries and long-term artistic homes. Our productions remain in rotation for years, maximizing both artistic development and return on investment.
Environmental Commitment: Our planned net-zero energy facility represents a pioneering commitment to environmental sustainability in the performing arts sector.
Inclusive Professional Structure: We've developed a unique flexible organizational structure that encourages artistic growth beyond traditional rigid roles—enabling singers to shift between chorus and soloist positions, musicians to explore conducting, and all artists to contribute to season planning. This creates an inclusive environment where observant Jewish artists can practice their profession without compromising their religious identity.
Yes, donations to Opera Shalem are tax-deductible through our fiscal sponsor, PFAP Foundation (led by Dr. Melissa Kronfield). This arrangement ensures tax deductibility in:
Israel (ע״ר)
United States (501c3)
Canada (501c3)
When you make a donation, you'll receive proper documentation for tax purposes. For specific questions about tax deductibility in your jurisdiction, we recommend consulting with your tax advisor.
As Opera Shalem grows, we plan to establish our own non-profit entity to streamline the donation process while maintaining tax benefits for our supporters.
We welcome many forms of support beyond financial contributions! You can help spread awareness about Opera Shalem by sharing our story on social media and with your networks. Those with professional expertise in areas such as arts administration, architecture, sustainable building, marketing, or education can volunteer specialized skills. Industry professionals in opera, music, or theater might consider joining advisory committees. Community leaders can help forge valuable partnerships with local institutions. We also encourage everyone to join our mailing list to stay informed about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to advocate for Opera Shalem within your community.