A countertenor has been selected as the next general director of Opera Philadelphia.

41-year old Anthony Roth Costanzo becomes the General Manager on June 1st, replacing David Devan, who is retiring after 13-seasons in charge.

Costanzo plans to continue his career as a singer while taking over an ambitious company dealing with post-pandemic economic challenges.

Opera Philadelphia dropped its well-regarded season-opening festival this year and lowered next season’s budget to $10-million of which just over $1-million is expected from ticket revenue.

The Chair of the Opera’s Board of Directors says more than 40-people applied for the position.  He says Costanzo was hired because of they were impressed with “his optimism and charisma.”