South Florida Classical Review

Helen K. Persson

Palm Beach Opera announced that longtime patron Helen K. Persson has made a $1 million dollar gift in honor of the company’s 50th anniversary to maintain artistic excellence throughout the celebratory 2011-2012 season.

Persson has been an active supporter of the company since 1996 and joined the organization’s board of directors in 1999. She previously made a $500,000 challenge grant to the opera during the 2009-2010 season and was sponsor of the company’s performances of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in 2009 and Verdi’s Requiem in 2011. Among her many philanthropic activities, Persson has also been a supporter of the Kravis Center and the Metropolitan Opera. Palm Beach Atlantic University named the Helen K. Persson Recital Hall in her honor.

In a released statement Palm Beach Opera general director Daniel Biaggi said “With her magnanimous support, leadership and vision over past seasons, Helen Persson has become Palm Beach Opera’s’ Guardian Angel.’ Helen’s deep love and knowledge of opera, as well as her passion to see the arts thrive, has given the community the gift of marvelous symphonic and operatic performances.”

Posted in News

Leave a Comment