Opera Santa Barbara has appointed Dr. Judy Dean, MD, to its Board of Directors. A longtime Santa Barbara resident, Dr. Dean is a retired radiologist known for her decades of medical service and community involvement.

Dr. Dean’s love of opera began at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and has taken her to opera houses worldwide.

She and her family have been supporters of Opera Santa Barbara for many years, hosting artists, supporting fundraising efforts, and fostering strong connections between performers and the community, Opera Santa Barbara said.

“For me opera is timeless stories set to unforgettable music,” said Dr. Dean. “Opera Santa Barbara is one of the performing arts jewels of this community, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”

I love their slogan, “Life set to music,” she said. “The performances showcase some of the most beautiful music ever written and are never lacking in passion and drama.”

Dr. Dean retired from medical practice in 2018 after nearly three decades in Santa Barbara and now enjoys gardening and golf while continuing her commitment to arts and cultural organizations.

Opera Santa Barbara said it “looks forward to her leadership, perspective, and enthusiasm as the company continues to enrich the cultural life of the community.”

“When it seems like humanity is lacking in the world, opera may be exactly what we need. “The arts are what nourish our humanity.” Dr. Dean said.

A provider of professional music theater for California’s Central Coast since 1994, Opera Santa Barbara has staged more than 95 productions of opera favorites, lesser-known classics, and contemporary American works.

The company also develops the talent of emerging singing actors; educates children in the art and meaning of music theater; and provides free educational and musical programs to the broader Santa Barbara region.

For more, visit operasb.org.