For Janice and Mitch Wellsteed, opera is not something they grew up with—it is something they discovered, learned to love, and ultimately chose to support so that others might have the same opportunity.

Janice’s relationship with LA Opera began in the 1990s, when she attended performances with her late husband, Bob. At the time, the company—and the opera-going experience—looked quite different from today. Bob, who taught in Watts at King/Drew Magnet High School of Medicine and Science, was deeply involved in LA Opera’s education and community programs. Through initiatives like Opera for Educators, Saturday Mornings at the Opera, and the annual community opera at the Cathedral, Bob helped bring opera into classrooms and neighborhoods across Los Angeles.

Those years left a lasting impression on both of them. Janice fondly recalls learning to appreciate the conducting of James Conlon through the community operas, while one of Bob’s proudest memories was taking a bow onstage alongside Maestro Conlon at the end of a performance—an unforgettable moment that symbolized how deeply connected he felt to the company.

After both Janice and Mitch lost their spouses within a few years of one another, their lives eventually intersected in a new chapter. When they became a couple, Janice brought Mitch to the opera for the very first time. Mitch arrived with no prior knowledge of the art form, but he quickly found his footing thanks to James Conlon’s pre-performance lectures, which helped demystify opera and deepen his understanding.

Neither Janice nor Mitch grew up attending opera, but together they discovered something timeless in it.

“We are continually enchanted with opera,” they share. “The fact that the text and music were written so long ago, but are still relevant today, is fascinating.”

Over the years, their love of the performing arts has extended beyond LA Opera to include the LA Philharmonic, performances at the Ahmanson Theatre, and many faithful years attending Long Beach Opera. Still, LA Opera remains at the heart of their artistic life.

Recently, Janice and Mitch became Founders members, an experience they describe as deeply affirming. “We feel like we are at home when we’re in the Founders Room,” they say, noting how much they enjoy connecting with staff and feeling part of the company’s inner circle.

That sense of belonging is matched by a strong desire to give back—especially in support of education.

“We enjoy giving, knowing that the company provides opportunities for so many young people to experience opera,” they explain. “We really want Opera for Educators to continue.”

For Janice and Mitch, supporting LA Opera is about more than performances onstage. It is about sustaining access, education, and inspiration for future generations—just as those programs once shaped their own journey.

“We feel very honored to be a part of the LA Opera family.”

Through their generosity and long-term commitment, Janice and Mitch Wellsteed are helping ensure that opera remains vibrant, relevant, and welcoming—for educators, students, and audiences yet to come.

Thank you, Janice and Mitch.

Join the Wellsteeds in supporting the future of grand opera in Los Angeles by making a tax-deductible gift today. Your contribution will help fund the work on our stage and throughout our community.