Ailyn Pérez was celebrated this past Sunday, April 7th, in New York City as one of this year’s Opera New Honorees.  This prestigious award honors outstanding achievement in the opera world. As Opera News Editor in Chief F. Paul Driscoll wrote in the press release:

“Since the Awards’ inception in 2005, OPERA NEWS looks forward to recognizing outstanding men and women in the world of opera. These five artists have transformed the way audiences experience opera and have left an everlasting impact on this essential and ever-evolving art form.”

Pérez was honored both for her artistry and for her commitment to mentorship in underserved communities. Her fellow honorees are stage director and designer Laurent Pelly, mezzo-soprano Rosalind Elias, bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni, and tenor Ramón Vargas. Ms. Pérez received was presented with her award by countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo, thanking both her parents and teachers in her acceptance speech.