Previously an internationally acclaimed opera singer and fluent in five languages, Pamela A. Pantos has performed in many of the world’s most prestigious concert venues, including Carnegie Hall, Lyric Opera of Athens, and State Theater of Munich. Her experience on the stage and in the boardroom has transformed organizations, such as Arts Consulting Group, Opera North, and Newport Music Festival, by creating new revenue streams, reducing costs, and facilitating strategic partnerships. She is currently the Executive Director of the Newport Music Festival. We asked her a few questions about her life and art-making in Rhode Island for our series, Rhode Island Cultural Anchors.
RISCA: Give us a brief overview of your day yesterday- what did you do in both your personal and professional life.
PP: Every day is different. Yesterday, we spoke with some of our featured artists and spent the bulk of our time putting the finishing touches on this season’s program book. At 132 pages, it is truly a labor of love! We also shot a promotional video at one of our stunning Gilded Age venues, The Elms.
RISCA: What do you love about the art community in Rhode Island?
PP: Newport provides a wonderful landscape for the arts. There is the Newport Art Museum, film screenings at Jane Pickens Theatre, and a myriad of special events at the mansions, Tennis Hall of Fame, and Audrain Automobile Museum, just to name a few!
RISCA: What is one thing that your organization want to accomplish in the next year?
PP: Our goal is to expand the Newport Music Festival brand by finding even more ways to showcase artful, entertaining, and unexpected performances. This season will feature classical favorites alongside performances by a ten-piece jazz band as well as a stunning dance company.
RISCA: What are you the most excited about right now in your work as an arts and culture administrator?
PP: We are most excited about our $500K Challenge Grant by the Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust. This transformational gift will support our dynamic growth and assist us in achieving our vision of world-class programming, broad and inclusive Education & Outreach, and financial stability through the establishment of a capital reserve.
RISCA: What is one thing you think the art community in Rhode Island needs?
PP: Recognition. The local arts community deserves recognition for all of the hard work that goes into providing cultural events to this beautiful, vibrant state.
You can follow Pamela and Newport Music Festival’s 2020 Season on their website, facebook, twitter, and instagram.