DeLee Michiko Benton is a recent graduate of Opera Birmingham’s Studio program pursuing their master's degree in Vocal Performance at Samford University. Recently, DeLee directed both shows for the inaugural May Opera Project in Birmingham, AL. They have also been a finalist in Samford’s 2022-23 Concerto Aria Competition, a featured Student Director for Samford’s Opera Scenes Program in Fall 2021, and Assistant Director for Samford’s Spring 2023 Opera Scenes Program.

DeLee made their professional debut as the Sandman in Opera Birmingham’s Hansel and Gretel, 2023. A few of their favorite past credits include Amahl and the Night Visitors (Mother), Little Red’s Most Unusual Day (Little Red), Le nozze di Figaro (Susanna), La Boheme (ensemble, Mimi cover), and The Magic Flute (Monostatos). DeLee traveled to Italy this past summer to sing Contessa in Le nozze di Figaro at the Brancaleoni Festival.

DeLee’s favorite thing to do in their free time is costume work. Some of their favorite past shows where they have served as costume designer include Opera Birmingham’s Little Red’s Most Unusual Day, DWB (Driving While Black), The Billy Goats Gruff, and Samford’s Amahl and the Night Visitors. DeLee is thrilled to be the costume designer for the world premiere of Mack & Maguire’s Opera Dragon’s Breath at Samford University.