James Haffner

James Haffner is a Professor of Opera at the University of the Pacific's Conservatory of Music and Director of Pacific Opera Theatre. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Directing and an Artist's Diploma in Opera Stage Directing from the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. A Fulbright Scholar, he has taught internationally and served as Producing Artistic Director of the Stockton Opera Association since 2007.

• Education: BA, Baldwin-Wallace University; AD/MFA, Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

His research focuses on opera production, stage directing techniques (particularly Michael Chekhov's method), and historical performance practices. Notable works include La Cenerentola (National Opera Association award winner), Berlin to Broadway with Kurt Weill, and the German premiere of A Bright Room Called Day. He has directed at the Berliner Ensemble and Berlin Museumsinsel Fest.

Teaching responsibilities include Opera Theatre Workshop, Lyric Diction, and Opera Literature. His productions emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and cultural relevance.

• Awards: Kennedy Center/ACTF Finalist, Fulbright Scholar, National Opera Association Recognition

Professional activities include work with the Bay View and Bear Valley Music Festivals, Lincoln Center Directors' Lab-West, and adjudication for the Irene Dalis Vocal Competition.