Summer Opera 2026 For Singers, Stage Managers, Répétiteurs, Stage Directors, Composers, and Conductors

Program Dates Jun 29, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026

The Handmaids Tale, Banff Centre 2024. Photo by Rita Taylor.

Overview  

This program offers skill building and practical experience for singers, stage managers, répétiteurs, stage directors, composers, and conductors. Participants will workshop new operas at various stages of development, collaborating directly with composers, librettists, and directors in a dynamic creative process.

Alongside the workshop experience, the program features masterclasses, coachings, seminars, mentorship, networking opportunities, and performances. These elements are designed to strengthen technical skills, deepen artistic practice, and foster the professional resilience needed for a sustainable career in opera.

Description

This program welcomes singers, stage managers, répétiteurs, stage directors, composers, and conductors who are eager to expand their skills, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to the creation and performance of new opera. Key Components include:

  • Focus on collaboration, adaptability, and interpretation.
  • Masterclasses and coachings with leading faculty: Jason Ferrante, Karen Slack, Christina Bell, Hèctor parra, Mariame Clement and Michael Mori.
  • Opera Development Workshops
  • Performance Opportunities: New Contemporary Operas at varying stages of completion (from early readings to semi-staged workshops) will be rehearsed, developed, and presented in a public or invited showing
  • Rotations allow participants to engage with multiple pieces, gaining diverse creative perspectives.
  • Creative teams (composer, librettist, and director) are in residence for the duration of the program.

By the end of the program, participants will:

  • Gain practical skills for navigating the contemporary opera field.
  • Acquire first-hand experience developing a opera from the inside
  • Build professional networks across disciplines
  • Be equipped with tools for a sustainable career in opera
Deadline
Residency Length
5 days - 6 months
Languages
English
Average Number of Artists in Residence at a Time
15
Collaborative Residency
Must apply and be accepted individually
May apply as a team
Discipline
Music
Opera
Theater
Companions
N/A
Country of Residence
Open to artists based anywhere in the world
Family Friendly
N/A
Stage of Career
Any stage of career
Additional Expectations/Opportunities
Participate in public programming
Participate in open studio with fellow residents
Give artist talk or presentation
Accessible Housing
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Meals Provided
Some meals (at least 2 meals provided)
Studios/Special Equipment
Performance/Presentation Facilities
Theater
Dance Studio With Sprung Floor
Dance Studio Without Sprung Floor
Piano
Studios/Facilities Accessibility
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Type of Housing
Private bedroom in a shared housing facility on campus
Additional Eligibility Information

Requirements

This program is designed for classically trained opera singers and répétiteurs, composers, and conductors. Stage managers and stage directors must have some experience in opera (or related theatre) and be able to read music. 

We welcome applications from individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Completed or are currently pursuing post-secondary studies in a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience and commitment to classical opera and music performance.
Artist Stipend
Travel Stipend/Material Stipends
Residency Fees
11714
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Grant/Scholarship/other Funding Support
6804
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Grant/Scholarship/Other Funding Support Details

Scholarships

We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amounts and information on how to apply.

  • Scholarship covering 100% of tuition cost is awarded to all arts participants, made possible through endowments and donations.
  • To apply for additional scholarship towards accommodation and a meal plan, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials. With additional scholarship applied, participants should still expect to pay a minimum of 50% towards their accommodation and a meal plan (refer to amount listed above).
  • Canadian Indigenous scholarship: covers 100% of tuition fees, a meal plan, and accommodation costs.

 

Application Fee
65
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Application Type
Open application