about counter codex
counter codex was founded by Jordan Rutter-Covatto to reimagine the place of queerness in classical music. counter codex projects combine opera, performance art, and experimental theatre to break down the barriers between the arts and the lives of its creators, performers, and audiences.
We believe in creating art that is unfiltered and unafraid and responds to the biggest questions facing our community today: who creates culture? What stories get to be told? What does the media we create say about who we are?
All counter codex projects are conceived to feature members of the local queer community of any number of performance backgrounds: previous counter codex shows have featured photographers, writers, body painters, and a really scary guy in a rubber suit. Every event is first and foremost a place for people to come together and celebrate each other, from our signature productions to our free events. A counter codex show is a party and you’re invited.
We’re challenging the old narratives of the arts by discovering the deeper truths buried within them. Let’s crack the code together.
ABC’s Our America on POLYMATH (2024)
Jordan Rutter-Covatto, founder & artistic director
Jordan Rutter-Covatto (they/them) is a professional countertenor with over a decade of experience. Jordan has been engaged as an opera singer in principal roles with companies including Chicago Opera Theater, Nashville Opera, and On Site Opera. Additionally, they have worked with organizations presenting classical music outside of traditional concertgoing spaces on projects like SONIC BLOSSOMS with the MET Museum and THE MILE LONG OPERA with the High Line. Jordan is a sought-after collaborator for the development of new opera and has worked with several of New York’s premier development companies. Jordan has worked as a guest artist for several years with NYU Tisch’s Graduate Musical Theater Writing Program, workshopping new pieces written by students and alumni in a course designed to teach them how to write opera. Jordan’s performance press kit can be found at www.jordanruttercovatto.com.
Vincent Rutter-Covatto, founding trustee
Vincent Rutter-Covatto (he/him) is an arts leader and producer based in New York City. He is the director of learning and leadership at OPERA America, where he develops leadership and professional development programming for opera company administrators, independent producers, and artists. 2025 marks his 10th year at the company, where he previously served in roles in the membership department and National Opera Center. He is an alumnus of OPERA America's 2019 Leadership Intensive. He is the founding trustee for counter codex. Outside of his work in the arts, Vincent can be found taking classes at the Harlem YMCA, volunteering for political causes, and spending time in the West Village.