Application Deadline November 19, 2025
Program Dates Jun 29, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026
Overview
This program offers skill building and practical experience for singers, stage managers, répétiteurs, stage directors, composers, and conductors. Participants will workshop new operas at various stages of development, collaborating directly with composers, librettists, and directors in a dynamic creative process.
Alongside the workshop experience, the program features masterclasses, coachings, seminars, mentorship, networking opportunities, and performances. These elements are designed to strengthen technical skills, deepen artistic practice, and foster the professional resilience needed for a sustainable career in opera.
Description
This program welcomes singers, stage managers, répétiteurs, stage directors, composers, and conductors who are eager to expand their skills, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to the creation and performance of new opera. Key Components include:
- Focus on collaboration, adaptability, and interpretation.
- Masterclasses and coachings with leading faculty: Jason Ferrante, Karen Slack, Christina Bell, Hèctor parra, Mariame Clement and Michael Mori.
- Opera Development Workshops
- Performance Opportunities: New Contemporary Operas at varying stages of completion (from early readings to semi-staged workshops) will be rehearsed, developed, and presented in a public or invited showing
- Rotations allow participants to engage with multiple pieces, gaining diverse creative perspectives.
- Creative teams (composer, librettist, and director) are in residence for the duration of the program.
By the end of the program, participants will:
- Gain practical skills for navigating the contemporary opera field.
- Acquire first-hand experience developing a opera from the inside
- Build professional networks across disciplines
- Be equipped with tools for a sustainable career in opera
Requirements
This program is designed for classically trained opera singers and répétiteurs, composers, and conductors. Stage managers and stage directors must have some experience in opera (or related theatre) and be able to read music.
We welcome applications from individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Completed or are currently pursuing post-secondary studies in a related field.
- Demonstrated experience and commitment to classical opera and music performance.
Scholarships
We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amounts and information on how to apply.
Scholarship covering 100% of tuition cost is awarded to all arts participants, made possible through endowments and donations.
To apply for additional scholarship towards accommodation and a meal plan, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials. With additional scholarship applied, participants should still expect to pay a minimum of 50% towards their accommodation and a meal plan (refer to amount listed above).
Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, a meal plan, and accommodation costs.
Any personal information provided in a request to post a listing on the AFA newsfeed, or in the listing itself, will be used for the purpose of posting to the AFA’s newsfeed, administering the AFA’s website and providing individuals and organizations with information on AFA programs and events. Such information is collected under the authority of section 33 (c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and is protected by the privacy provisions of the Act. Should you have any questions about the collection of this information, you may contact Aaron Talbot, Arts Services Consultant – Communications, at 780-289-3781.