Spotlight Series

From concept to reality: making opera come alive.

A program series that illuminates the intricate work of planning and producing opera. Design, artistry, collaboration, and problem-solving under pressure… it’s all in a day’s work at Calgary Opera.

Up Next: WED NOV 4 | From the Practice Room: Preparing the Singer

Join Calgary-based soprano Anna Pompeeva, Artistic Director Jonathan Brandani, and Calgary Opera Head Coach Emily Hamper for a look into the process of coaching an opera singer as they prepare for an upcoming performance with Calgary Opera. Hear Anna perform arias from our upcoming Otello, where she will sing the role of Desdemona, and learn about the musical preparation process as Anna workshops the selections in real time with Calgary Opera's music staff. This interactive presentation also features a moderated Q&A and opportunities to ask questions of our artists.

WED FEB 24 | From the Director's Chair: Directing an Opera 

Featuring Tayte Mitchell — stage director, tenor, former McPhee Artist with Calgary Opera, and CEO & Artistic Director of Calgary's Ammolite Opera — this event is a look behind-the-scenes at the work of the opera director. From research and preparation, to running staging rehearsals and overseeing a design team and production crew, learn what's involved in directing an opera: how it's different from other forms of theatre, exploring conceptual and traditional styles of directing, and insights into directing opera singers.