Photo by David Bachman
About Dana
Dana Kinney is an operatic stage director recognized for her “vulnerable and visionary” approach to storytelling. Following a two-season residency with Pittsburgh Opera, where she made her company directing debut with Benjamin Britten’s Curlew River, she continues to build a dynamic directing career across the country. This 2026/27 season, she returns to The Dallas Opera to assist on a Barry Kosky production of The Cunning Little Vixen, joins Opera Omaha for her company debut as assistant director of The Pigeon Keeper, and makes her directing debut with Resonance Works, leading a new production of Don Carlo.
Passionate about the development of new work, Ms. Kinney has collaborated closely with composers and creative teams on the creation and refinement of contemporary operas. She assisted two world premieres of Time to Act and Woman with Eyes Closed at Pittsburgh Opera, and directed The Blue Fairy, by Pittsburgh composer, Rob Frankenberry. Her directing credits also include L’enfant et les sortilèges, L’elisir d’amore, The Wandering Scholar, Signor Deluso, Thunder of Horses, The Daughter of the Regiment, Amahl and the Night Visitors, The Impresario, as well as numerous opera scenes for young artist programs, universities and opera events. She’s served on the directing staffs at Seattle Opera, Central City Opera, The Dallas Opera, Syracuse Opera, Boulder Opera Company, Opera Fort Collins and Loveland Opera Theatre.
Ms. Kinney is a dedicated educator and mentor who enjoys helping artists discover confidence, curiosity, and authenticity in their work. She strives to create a positive environment where singers feel supported to take creative risks, collaborate generously, and develop a deeper connection to their craft. She has coached and directed emerging artists at institutions including Pittsburgh Opera, Central City Opera, Opera Steamboat, Carnegie Mellon University, and Ithaca College.
A multi-disciplinary artist with a background in singing, acting, and comedy, Ms. Kinney continues to perform nationally, bringing a dynamic performer’s perspective to her work as a director. She has studied at The Barrow Group, Upright Citizen’s Brigade, The People’s Improv Theater and Rise Comedy. She holds a M.M in Voice Performance from Colorado State University and a B.A in music and theatre from the University of Northern Colorado.
Portfolio
CURLEW RIVER
THE BLUE FAIRY
PITTSBURGH OPERA FASHION SHOWS
PITTSBURGH OPERA EVENTS
L’ENFANT ET LES SORTILÈGES
THE WANDERING SCHOLAR
AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS
News and Press
“Pittsburgh Opera’s production of Curlew River is indeed a spiritual experience, moving and vulnerable. Thanks to Dana Kinney’s direction and interpretation, the production comes together cohesively. As the monks take up their candles again and walk in a line down the aisle to exit, their voices gradually fade. The story ends, leaving only silence behind as we in the audience ruminate on our compassion for the Madwoman”
— Mingsi Ma, Onstage Pittsburgh
Review: A Spiritual and Vulnerable Experience at Pittsburgh Opera’s ‘Curlew River’
“In the Director’s Notes for Pittsburgh Opera’s Curlew River, the Stage Director Dana Kinney writes that “…[Curlew River] offers a more intimate, ritual-like experience, inviting stillness and careful listening.” I couldn’t agree more.”
Standing ovation for Pittsburgh Opera’s production of ‘Curlew River.’
“This production’s brilliance is in its simplicity, and in the story being the chief focus. There weren’t flashy costumes or sets — just brilliantly talented actors, incredible musicians, and visionary directing. This might be my new favorite opera.”
Though ‘Curlew River’ isn’t your typical opera, it’s rooted in human experience
”Kinney believes the two major themes of the play are “very human” as they explore the struggles of grief and the importance of community.”
The POP: Curlew River (Pittsburgh Opera Podcast)
Host Matthew Hrdlicka sits down with Resident Artist Stage Director Dana Kinney to discuss her Pittsburgh Opera directorial debut, Benjamin Britten’s Curlew River. Together, they discuss the work’s ancient Japanese roots, its powerful themes, and what audiences can expect when this rare gem is performed at the stunning Calvary Episcopal Church.
Pittsburgh Opera— Curlew River— Dana Kinney
An interview with Anna Singer on WQED's Voice of the Arts.
REVIEW: Aria412’s Production of ‘The Blue Fairy’ Adds Nostalgia and Thoughtful Twists to Pinocchio
“Director Dana Kinney maximizes possibilities in the intimate space.”
Upcoming Directing Events
Oct 30, Nov 1, 4, 7, 2026
The Cunning Little Vixen
Assistant Director
The Dallas Opera
Jan 28, 29, 30, 2027
The Pigeon Keeper
Assistant Director
Opera Omaha
June 18, 20, 2027
Don Carlo
Director
Resonance Works