CENTRE STAGE:
ENSEMBLE STUDIO COMPETITION
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 at 7 p.m.
Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
Experience the thrilling power of the human voice and the potential genesis of stardom, as a new generation of brilliant singers compete in the final round of auditions for the Ensemble Studio, Canada’s leading career development program for emerging opera artists.
Finalists, selected through rigorous cross-country auditions, will perform an aria each, demonstrating their technical ability, dramatic expression, and overall stage presence in front of a live audience.
For most singers in the competition, this moment represents their biggest artistic accomplishment in their young careers—and a potentially life-changing experience.
This is undoubtedly one of the most exciting evenings of the year where history will be made, and a star will be born. Whether you are curious about opera or an aficionado, it's an unforgettable showcase of beautiful music and dazzling Canadian talent.
-
ABOUT THE ENSEMBLE STUDIO The COC Ensemble Studio is an innovative artist development program for emerging Canadian opera professionals.
The company’s uniquely collaborative approach blends advanced study and practical experience through a multi-year program that’s individually tailored for each member. Artists receive intensive vocal coaching; language, movement and acting studies; as well as private masterclasses with renowned opera professionals. Ensemble singers perform and understudy mainstage roles, while Ensemble pianists participate in the preparation of the COC’s mainstage productions.
Since 1980, nearly 230 young professional Canadian singers and pianists have acquired foundational opera experience through the Ensemble Studio. Former members include Ben Heppner, Krisztina Szabó, Emily D’Angelo, Claire de Sévigné, Gordon Bintner, Ambur Braid, Miriam Khalil, Wallis Giunta, and David Pomeroy.
To learn more about the COC Ensemble Studio, click here.CENTRE STAGE CO-CHAIRS The red carpet is rolled out and we are ready for this year’s Centre Stage: “Lights. Camera. Opera!”
As production kicks into high gear, the COC is delighted to introduce our event co-chairs, Kristy Balkwill and Lily Li! The pair brings a wealth of experience to planning the annual fundraiser in support of emerging Canadian artists and is looking forward to taking the company’s signature gala to the next level with this year’s Hollywood-inspired theme.
Learn more about Kristy and Lily here. -
Cocktail Reception in the Isadore & Rosalie Sharp City Room, Centre Stage 2018. Photo by Gaetz Photography Special Guest mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo performs, Centre Stage 2018. Photo by Michael Cooper Dining experience by Chef David Lee of Nota Bene restaurant, Centre Stage 2018. Photo by Gaetz Photography Host Ben Heppner, Centre Stage 2017. Photo by Michael Cooper Simone Osborne & Andrew Haji perform at the Centre Stage Gala, Centre Stage 2017. Photo by Gaetz Photography Simona Genga wins First Prize and the Audience Choice Award, Centre Stage 2017. Photo by Michael Cooper Gala guests at Centre Stage 2017. Photo by Ryan Emberley Third Prize winner Anna-Sophie Neher performs, Centre Stage 2017. Photo by Michael Cooper Cocktail Reception in the Isadore & Rosalie Sharp City Room, Centre Stage 2016. Photo by Ryan Emberley Simone McIntosh wins First Prize, Centre Stage 2016. Photo by Michael Cooper Second Prize Winner Samuel Chan performs, Centre Stage 2016. Photo by Michael Cooper Exterior of the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, Centre Stage 2015. Photo by Ikonica Surprise Guest Jane Archibald performs, Centre Stage 2017. Photo by Michael Cooper Ensemble Studio members perform at the Centre Stage Gala, Centre Stage 2018. Photo by Gaetz Photography Photo by Gaetz Photography Dining Experience Photo by Gaetz Photography