Eligibility

Summer Opera is intended for emerging and early-career singers, conductors, and stage directors seeking intensive professional development in contemporary opera and collaborative performance practice. No specific degree or formal credential is required. Singers should demonstrate secure vocal technique, strong musicianship, and the ability to engage with dramatic interpretation. Conductors should have experience leading singers and instrumentalists, working with scores, and supporting collaborative rehearsal processes. Stage Directors should demonstrate theatrical imagination, storytelling ability, and experience collaborating with performers and creative teams.

Number of Participants

20

Deadline

November 05, 2026 06:59 UTC

Selection Results (Announcement Dates)

January 06, 2027 07:00 UTC

Duration

July 05, 2027 - July 31, 2027

Costs

• CA$65.00 application fee
• CA$2,690.00 program fee (one-time)

Facilities

Piano, Sound Studio, Stage

Housing

Private Room

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Public Programs

Group Dinners, Mentors, Open Studios, Performances, Professional Development, Visiting Professionals, Workshops

Disciplines

Opera

Program Description

Centered on contemporary opera, new work, and innovative approaches to the art form, Summer Opera provides hands-on experience with new and contemporary repertoire supporting participants in expanding their creative practice through mentorship, collaboration across disciplines, and performance opportunities. The 2027 program will feature new operas by Niloufar Nourbakhsh and Cecilia Livingston, alongside selected scenes from the classical opera repertoire. Program content includes individual and group vocal coaching; role study, musical preparation, and language work; acting, movement, and dramatic interpretation; conducting and stage-directing mentorship; rehearsals with singers, pianists, conductors, and creative teams; masterclasses, seminars, and interdisciplinary exchange; and public performances, informal sharings, and community events. Participants have access to rehearsal studios, coaching rooms, pianos, production resources, and professional performance venues.