ROBERT ASHENS (Conductor) Eugene and San Francisco-based musician Robert Ashens, whose distinguished career as conductor and pianist has brought him to many world capitals, is Artistic Director/co-founder of the West Coast Opera (Opera Oregon) and The Johann Strauss Society of America. Oliver! marks the 42nd of his Shedd Theatricals as Conductor, and 44th as Music Director. Ashens is past Artistic Director of Eugene Opera, Opera San Luis Obispo, and Anchorage Opera. The Maestro is a Master Coach for major Opera and Broadway singers worldwide, a judge for prestigious ‘The American Prize’ and he maintains an active studio as a consultant, online and in the SF Bay Area. As a Pianist, he performs solo and chamber music principally in Oregon and California, as well as European venues. With a repertoire of over 125 operas and musical theater, and a portfolio of symphonic and ballet), he has conducted to great acclaim for regional houses in America and Europe and accompanies world luminaries in recital. Additionally, he has been guest symphony conductor for numerous chamber orchestras, locally and abroad, for 40+ years.