The Washington National Opera (WNO) is an opera company based in Washington, D.C., United States. The WNO was founded in 1956 and is a constituent company of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The WNO presents a season of operatic productions each year, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary works. The company’s performances take place at the Kennedy Center Opera House, as well as at other venues in the Washington, D.C. area. The WNO also presents educational and community outreach programs. The company is led by its General Director, Timothy O’Leary.