Nina Yoshida Nelsen
Nina Yoshida Nelsen is in her first season as the Artistic Director of Boston Lyric Opera. An acclaimed mezzo-soprano, Nina is widely recognized both for her extensive performances of Suzuki in Madama Butterfly across North America and Europe, and for her commitment to equity in the arts.
Nina Yoshida Nelsen is in her first season as the Artistic Director of Boston Lyric Opera. An acclaimed mezzo-soprano, Nina is widely recognized both for her extensive performances of Suzuki in Madama Butterfly across North America and Europe, and for her commitment to equity in the arts.
A champion of contemporary opera, she has performed in seven world premieres and their subsequent productions. Nina’s versatility extends beyond opera; she has graced prestigious concert venues such as Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Royal Albert Hall.
In the 2024-2025 season, Nina will reprise the role of Suzuki in Madama Butterfly at Anchorage Opera and Utah Opera, and will also perform as the mezzo-soprano soloist in Vivaldi’s Messiah with the Boise Philharmonic. Additionally, she will record a newly discovered Cuban opera with Boston University’s School for the Arts.
Beyond the stage, Nina is passionate about fostering connections within Boston’s arts community. She is also the co-founder and president of the Asian Opera Alliance, an organization dedicated to promoting equity and representation in opera.
As of October 2024.