Alexander Prokhorov-Tolstoy, Artistic and Stage Director of Commonwealth Lyric Theater, arrived in Boston in 1999 to pursue advanced degrees in opera at the Longy School of Music and later at Boston University’s Opera Institute. “I dreamt of my own opera company, bringing together enthusiastic individuals with varying levels of professionalism. My vision was, in addition to well-known opera productions, to showcase Slavic opera masterpieces rarely performed in America.”

Soon, this dream was realized with the founding of Commonwealth Lyric Theater. The first opera, "Iolanta" by Peter Tchaikovsky, was staged successfully by Mr. Prokhorov-Tolstoy with managerial and production skills of Executive Director Olga Lisovskaya.  The company was further joined and supported by Executive Producer Irina Prokhorov.

For over 10 years, Commonwealth Lyric Theater has captivated Boston audiences with rare gems from Slavic repertoires, creating familial, communal productions that unite musicians of diverse ages and skills. Mr. Prokhorov-Tolstoy’s stage directing has led Commonwealth Lyric Theater to be a three-time 1st place winner among professional opera companies by the United States National Opera Association.

The international cast of Commonwealth Lyric Theater always includes visiting international opera stars from renowned theaters like the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, Zurich Opera House, Odessa National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the Bolshoi Theatre, as well as local emerging young artists. Commonwealth Lyric Theater also nurtures emerging talent through its unique Young Artist Program, providing vocal students aged 6 to 18 the opportunity to perform on stage alongside world-known singers.

“We are building an opera community, a family,” says Mr. Prokhorov-Tolstoy. Experience the beauty of classical music with Commonwealth Lyric Theater, where passion, excellence, and a sense of family converge on the grand stage.