Our History

The AFoCG was Founded in 1969.

Initially, American Friends of Covent Garden's membership was largely people whose business, diplomatic postings, and personal and cultural travels took them often to London. They sought, especially in the years leading up to the Bicentennial, to foster the “special relationship” between England and the United States, encouraging Americans in London to attend and support The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet. AFoCG also helped to bring and support performances of The Royal Ballet from Covent Garden in American cities.

The Aspirations of AFoCG Today

Today our aspirations and membership are broader. Individuals, foundations and corporations across the United States join the AFoCG out of a commitment to opera and ballet as global art forms. Through grants the AFoCG awards the Royal Opera House three times a year, we support productions not infrequently shared by opera houses or ballet companies in several countries. Further, we help make possible educational and outreach programs to develop both the artists who will perform worldwide – in live performances, radio, HD cinema, and online streaming – and their international audiences.

In 2010 the AFoCG was reorganized with a new chairman and board members and is today undertaking new projects and initiatives, which will lead to providing increased support annually to Covent Garden.