Pacific Opera Victoria and Vancouver Opera are using operatic power as a new educational tool.
The Opera Sprouts Initiative is a new pilot project from two of B.C.’s foremost operatic organizations. It is designed to expose kids throughout B.C., to the world of opera while also connecting with their standard curriculum. The program will see new operas developed for kids in grades 3 to 6 through a yearlong mentorship program.
“Opera Sprouts means so much to me personally and to all of us at Vancouver Opera,” said Ashley Daniel Foot, director of engagement and civic practice for Vancouver Opera.
“It’s about creating space for voices that haven’t always been heard and sharing stories that truly matter.”
The initiative will tap up-and-coming composer and librettist teams who are interested in writing an opera for school touring on Vancouver Island and the mainland. A public submission process will see three teams selected for consideration. These teams will work with POV and Vancouver Opera to develop their work. Ultimately, one of the new operas will be selected and will move ahead with a tour of B.C. schools.
“The opera field needs a place for composers and librettists to learn their craft and discover what opera can do. With voice, music and drama, they will get to face the toughest audience of all – kids,” said Rebecca Hass, director of engagement and new work at Pacific Opera Victoria.
Organizers hope for the program to not only be educational, but also to potentially inspire the creation of some significant new and modern operas.
“Together, we’re celebrating the incredible potential of opera to inspire and connect with young audiences in profound and meaningful ways. These are the stories that shape our world, and it’s an honour to bring them to life,” said Foot.
The call for submission to The Opera Sprout's Initiative closes March 31, while the program will begin June 1. Interested applicants can find more information on The Opera Sprouts Initiative web page.
