In the fall of 2006, the board of directors for the Guild of Tulsa Opera raised concerns about the shrinking membership and lack of young members in the guild. The board of directors moved to organize a task force to explore a new membership group that would target a diverse group of young professionals between the ages of 25-50.  The primary goals were to provide social and business networking opportunities for young professionals through the art of opera and to provide performance benefits and educational opportunities. The guild was awarded a $1000 grant from the Opera Volunteers International in the fall of 2006. . Before the first event, it was decided to use the name Amici di Opera, friends of the opera.  The first event coincided with the production of Carmen.  Tulsa Opera provided dress rehearsal tickets to anyone interested in Amici di Opera.

    Approximately 25 people attended the dress rehearsal followed by a gathering at Vintage 1740, a wine bar.  As time progressed and more and more people were added to the list, it became evident that Tulsa was ready for a new young professional arts group.  By the second event, there were 110 people who had expressed an interest in Amici.  The idea was to draw people to the opera first and then follow up with social activities.   Tulsa Opera provided orchestra seating at a group rate.

      A Steering Committee for Amici is being formed and plans for the 2008-2009 Tulsa Opera Season are being developed.  An email introducing Amici plans will be sent to persons who have indicated an interest.