The Dayton Opera Artists-in-Residence Program was established in 1987 to serve as a professional training program for young singers as a bridge to move from the university/conservatory education experience into the arena of a professional opera company. Since its inception, over one hundred young artists have participated in this program. Artists are selected by audition, and, in addition to their training schedule, they work together to perform education and outreach programs in our community, helping to ensure the future of this magnificent art form in our area. Choose from several engaging program options below!
Who Wants to be An Opera Star?!
Run-Time: 45 minutes
Ages: All ages
Cost: $500 per performance
Who Wants to be an Opera Star is an introduction to the art form of opera through the framework of a television game show. The performance runs as a series of questions and competitions, with four singers in the roles of emcee and contestants. Studio audience members (the students) will learn about voice types, arias, duets, props and costumes, and a dash of opera history. While cheering on the contestants, students will learn Italian words associated with opera and participate by identifying emotions and clapping rhythms in musical selections taken from some of the world’s favorite operas.
Once Upon a Time: Cinderella Goes to the Opera
Run-Time: 45 minutes
Ages: All ages
Cost: $500 per performance
Available February–March 2024
Dayton Opera takes on the classic fairytale times three! Hear the story told through Rossini’s La Cenerentola, Massenet’s Cendrillon, and Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Filled with magic, disguises, true love, and a ball, this enchanting production will be performed by Dayton Opera’s four Artists-in-Residence. This production, which was cut short by the pandemic, is back and better than ever, with more opportunities for the audience to join in the fun!
Opera Up Close
Run-Time: 30-45 minutes
Ages: All ages
Cost: $500 per performance
Opera Up Close is a bright and energetic 30-minute recital that introduces all aspects of opera in an exciting way! With a program of arias and ensembles tailored to each age and audience, students will enjoy learning more about the life of a professional singer, exploring the powerful storytelling of opera, and meeting four real live opera singers as they bring to life the art form they love … up close! Schools may request a bonus 10 to 15-minute question-and-answer session after the performance.
Choir Sectionals and Clinics
Ages: Grades 6–12
Cost: Inquire for pricing
Dayton Opera Artists-in-Residence visit your classroom to lead rehearsals, sectionals, masterclasses, or to perform for your students.
Children’s Traveling Opera
Run-Time: 45 minutes
Ages: Grades 3-6
Cost: $300 per performance
Children’s Traveling Opera (CTO) features Dayton Opera Artists-in-Residence. Experience this entertaining and engaging program that provides students with the opportunity to participate in their own production of The Pirates of Penzance.