Khori Dastoor,
Soprano

*Michael Kalkstein and Susan English, Prof. John M. Heineke and Prof. Catherine R. Montfort Fellow

Khori Dastoor performs the roles of Adina (The Elixir of Love), Despina (Così fan tutte) and Micaela (Carmen) during her second year as a principal artist of the resident company. Ms. Dastoor made her debut last season during the 2007 - 2008 season, performing the title role in Lucia di Lammermoor, Sophie (Werther), Gilda (Rigoletto), and Pamina (The Magic Flute.) Recent performances  featured Ms. Dastoor as Blondchen in Midsummer Mozart Festival's performance of The Abduction from the Seraglio on August 1 and 3 at the California Theatre. Ms.Dastoor will also appear as a featured soloist in OSJ's 25th Anniversary Gala Concert on September 20, 2008.

Ms. Dastoor returned to California after graduating with honors from the New England Conservatory of Music. She recently appeared as Miss Wordsworth in Albert Herring at the Aspen Music Festival under the baton of Maestro Robert Spano and in the role of Gabrielle in Offenbach's La Vie Parisienne with Lake George Opera. She has frequently appeared with the community programs division of the Los Angeles Opera, and has performed the role of "Sophie de Palma" in the critically acclaimed revival of Terrence McNally's Master Class at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara.

Other recent engagements include a performance as the soprano soloist in the Brahms' Requiem with the Angeles Chorale and a return to the Lake George Opera Festival as Mabel (The Pirates of Penzance) and Lauretta (Gianni Schicchi and Buoso's Ghost).

Deeply committed to new music, Ms. Dastoor created the role of La Novia in the world premiere of Lorca: Child of the Moon at the Freud Playhouse and also recently originated the title role in the world premiere of The Tree at the Los Angeles Theatre Center. She also appeared as Mary in the world premiere of Paul Chihara's Magnificat with the Angeles Chorale and Debut Orchestra this past year.

A native of Pasadena, Ms. Dastoor is currently concluding doctoral studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she is the recipient of the Dean's Award for the School of Arts and Architecture whilst an artist in residence with Opera San José.


*Ms. Dastoor's artist residency is made possible in part by Fellowship Grants from Michael Kalkstein and Susan English and Prof. John M. Heineke and Prof. Catherine M. Montfort.