BALTIMORE, MD — Opera Baltimore is proud to announce internationally acclaimed soprano Mary Elizabeth Williams as the inaugural Imasogie Executive Apprentice for the 2025–2026 season. A trailblazing artist known for her commanding performances on some of the world’s most celebrated stages, Ms. Williams begins her one-year term with the company this month. She was recently introduced to the Opera Baltimore community at the Season Preview Party, where she was warmly received by patrons and supporters.

"It is a profound privilege for Opera Baltimore to welcome the extraordinary Mary Elizabeth Williams as the inaugural Imasogie Executive Apprentice," said Julia Cooke, President & General Director. "That an artist of her international stature has chosen our company—and this moment in her luminous career—to explore the next chapter of leadership is a powerful affirmation of the work we do and the values we uphold."

A Philadelphia native, Mary Elizabeth Williams' career has spanned continents and repertoires. From her early days touring with the national Broadway production of Showboat, to rising through the ranks at Seattle Opera and the Opéra National de Paris, to acclaimed portrayals of operatic powerhouses like Tosca, Abigaille (Nabucco), and Isolde (Tristan und Isolde), Ms. Williams brings a wealth of artistry, experience, and insight to her new role.

“I am so honored to have the opportunity to work and grow alongside Julia Cooke, who has proven herself to be an innovator and visionary in opera production since 2008,” said Ms. Williams. “Mr. Osagie Imasogie’s generous support of my apprenticeship with Opera Baltimore will yield tremendous returns for me personally, for Opera Baltimore institutionally, and for the art form as a whole. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of us as we deepen our relationships with each other and with the city we serve.”

In addition to her executive apprenticeship under Julia Cooke, Ms. Williams will also make her directorial debut at Opera Baltimore in 2026, helming the company’s production of Donizetti’s Lucrezia Borgia.

Her appointment as the Imasogie Executive Apprentice signals a bold evolution in Opera Baltimore’s commitment to artist-centered leadership and workforce development. This position was made possible through the visionary support of Osagie Imasogie, a longtime advocate for opera and a friend and supporter of Ms. Williams. The apprenticeship is designed to cultivate the next generation of transformative opera leaders.

The Opera Baltimore community will have the opportunity to engage with Ms. Williams throughout the season, both in the rehearsal room and in the boardroom, as she brings her unique perspective to bear on the company’s artistic and organizational vision.