Cape Town Opera (CTO) inspires, entertains and develops audiences through its acclaimed stage productions, educational outreach and community development programmes. Over the past ten years, the company has managed to position itself as a leader at the forefront of transformation in the performing arts, and as a key-role player in providing training and job opportunities to South African performing artists. Since its establishment in 1999, CTO has become the largest performing arts company in South Africa, with 57 full-time staff members in its employ. Over the past few years, the company has been gaining wide-spread acclaim for the continued artistic quality and excellence of its productions, both at home and abroad. CTO’s productions showcase local performing artists (singers, musicians, dancers, actors, etc.), and allow them the opportunity to work alongside and learn from leading international performers, directors and designers.