The Teatro Real has become the leading national opera house in Spain, with a significant international reputation. It is considered to be the fifth most important Spanish cultural institution and the most important in the sphere of music and dramatic arts. The artistic projects of the Teatro Real have made it one of the great international centres of operatic activity and an undisputed landmark among Spanish cultural institutions. Its artistic programme strives for excellence, nurturing both the traditional lyrical repertoire as well as contemporary works, incorporating twentieth-century and avant-garde music. It believes strongly in offering the public a place where they can discover the best artists and creators of the moment. It also pays particular attention to new audiences and introducing opera to young people. All of this, combined with the excellence of its Resident Choir and Orchestra, the use of cutting-edge technology and the long-running productions of shows of the highest artistic standards, with an increasingly high profile on stages throughout the five continents, has made the Teatro Real an important presence both inside and outside our borders. The Teatro Real is a Public Foundation, with significant participation by civilian society in its governing bodies and in its financing. The management of the theatre is autonomous, stable and professional, as is only to be expected of the principal cultural institutions of the state. Its presidents are the King and Queen of Spain and it has the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport and the Community of Madrid as founding Public Administrative bodies.