McPhee Voices: Jeremy Dubé

Australian baritone Jeremy Dubé joined the McPhee Artist Development Program in the memorable 2020/21 and 2021/22 seasons, where you may have spotted him onstage in The Merry Widow, La traviata, The Enchanted Child, and contemporary operas like John Estacio's The Cipher Clerk and Samy Moussa's Vastation.

As we approach the 20th anniversary season of the McPhee Program, it was the perfect time to reconnect with Dubé about his highlights, learning curves, and warm Calgary welcomes during his time as an emerging artist:

What's a standout memory from your time as a McPhee Artist?

Jeremy Dubé: "The biggest standout was the safety and health guidelines that changed the way that we held rehearsals, performances and productions in general. As we started in October of 2020, we were heavily affected by the pandemic. If you go back to some clips and photos from that season you will see the makeshift cubicles that were used in many of our rehearsals, coachings and opera workshop performances. Calgary Opera did the best they could in the ever-changing environment to make sure we were safe and continuing to make the best of the situation.

"Another standout memory was the warm welcome from the program manager, Mel Kirby. Having flown to Calgary from Sydney, Australia in 2020, Mel made sure I would have any help I needed. I'm sure many other McPhee artists throughout the years can attest to the level of Mel's support."

What do you remember as your biggest learning curve during your time in the McPhee Program?

JD: "The biggest learning curve was definitely singing in a mask. While not unique to Calgary Opera, the day-to-day of singing and opera production had suddenly drastically changed. There were many times I felt I had taken the freedom of singing prior to the pandemic for granted."

Do you still sing professionally? What are you up to now?

JD: "After leaving my time with Calgary Opera, I went straight into a contract with Opera Australia on their New South Wales Schools Tour production, continuing with them the year after. I've continued to sing in Australia and Canada including broadening into sacred music."

What advice do you have for today's emerging artists?

JD: "Surely not an original piece of advice, but for the emerging artists to take as much from the opportunities of the program as possible. The varied experiences of the McPhee Developing Artist program allow the singers to gain varied experiences and connections within the industry that you may not find on your own."