Rose Vardanian’s parents got her a momentus birthday gift when she turned 16—tickets to see Carmen live at the Shrine Auditorium—a touring performance from the San Francisco Opera. That was all it took for her to be well and truly hooked. “I still have the libretto they bought me there,” she chuckles.
In the years since, the face of opera in Los Angeles may have changed (a certain company was born), but some things haven’t. Carmen is still one of Rose's favorite productions, and opera is still a big part of her life. She's a volunteer for LA Opera, a participant in the Opera League, and a member of our Bella Voce Society.
And to think it all started with one show.
That’s why she helps teach kids about the art form. Rose volunteers in schools across the city, visiting students in classrooms before their field trips to our theater (and she knows these education programs reach more than just children, too). “Exposing the children to these wonderful programs we offer also brings their parents to the opera.”
Inspired by Warren Buffet, who plans to leave much of his estate to charity, she decided to make a legacy gift to LA Opera. “If you leave money to an activity that’s going to benefit a person’s understanding of life and human values, I think that’s a great thing to contribute to,” says Rose. “I hope my gift will help keep the [art form] going… Opera is here to stay.”
The Bella Voce Society is all about celebrating the people who create generous future gifts for LA Opera. Join this special group of visionary supporters by designating a legacy gift to LA Opera.
If you’re interested in making a planned gift—or if you’ve already provided for LA Opera in your will—just reach out and let us know. We’d like to honor you, too.
To learn more about Legacy Giving, get in touch at 213.972.3141 or legacy@laopera.org.
