Photo shared by Maiya Papaya
Start February on a high note with Afro Opera’s third annual Black History Month Concert, “A Message From the Roots” – a free event at St. Petersburg First United Methodist Church on February 1st, at 4 PM.
St. Petersburg native and opera singer Maiya Stevenson will serenade music lovers at this year’s concert, which highlights African American composers, performers, and Black artistry in classical music. The all-African American cast will feature Ashley Thunder and Kevin D. Mitchell from the St. Petersburg Opera Company, with Yohance Wicks accompanying on piano.
Stevenson founded Afro Opera in 2017 as a company dedicated to honoring diversity in classical music by “showcasing works from underrepresented composers,” while intertwining captivating storytelling performances to inspire audiences from different walks of life. Their mission statement also touches on how the company actively serves as a cultural ambassador for “inclusivity in classical music, providing transformative performances and educational opportunities that connect communities to the universal beauty of music.”
“One of the most significant barriers Afro Opera has broken is the belief that artists must wait for institutional approval to succeed…Afro Opera challenges that narrative,” said Stevenson. “While Afro Opera may not yet be at the stage of completely dismantling industry-wide barriers, it has intentionally created space to showcase underrepresented Black talent. Afro Opera is open to working with artists of all backgrounds, but I am deliberate about ensuring that our Black History Month concerts feature an all–African American cast.”
Stevenson also spoke on important lessons she’s learned founding the company – including actively supporting other artists. “Showing up matters. Your presence, your encouragement, and your representation make a difference, even when the artist may not realize it in the moment.”
She also believes in giving back. “I’ve noticed that attaching ticket prices to performances can unintentionally place a cap on how people perceive the value of the work. Some of my most successful concerts have been donation-based.”
Stevenson said she has learned to focus less on the quantity of supporters and more on the quality of support. “Early on, I worried about attendance numbers, but I quickly learned that some of my greatest opportunities came from people who attended my smallest shows.”
As far as considering her artistry as a universal experience, she says it’s important not to “limit your audience,” noting that though her work centers Black artistry, her “biggest supporters” come from many different cultures.
Nearly a decade after its founding, Afro Opera has retained a strong community following. As the company continues to push the boundaries in the music field, Stevenson welcomes new opportunities to educate, transform, and provide an inclusive space for artists to thrive in the classical musical genre.
“I envision Afro Opera expanding to present five to six concerts annually, not only in St. Petersburg but across other cities and states. Our goal is to establish signature yearly performances,” said Stevenson. “Long-term, Afro Opera aims to package these concerts and offer them to venues, churches, corporations, and cultural organizations nationwide—and eventually internationally. Growth, for Afro Opera, means visibility, sustainability, and opportunity for Black classical artists.”
Stevenson says that Afro Opera will continue to help artists create, perform, and thrive on their own terms.
You don’t want to miss this free event. Join the fun and come out to Afro Opera’s concert on February 1st, 4 PM.
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