Seven finalists have been chosen as finalists in the Canadian Opera Company’s Centre Stage: Ensemble Studio Competition. The competition event will be held on October 30, 2024, with all proceeds to go towards supporting the Ensemble Studio program.
“It is an immense privilege each year to hear so many emerging singers across the country and to witness their exceptional level of artistry,” says Dorian Cox, Director of the Ensemble Studio, in a statement. “Centre Stage is an evening like no other where we celebrate these artists, shine a spotlight on all they have to offer, and help to launch their careers across Canada and on the international stage!”
The Competition
A total of 120 candidates applied for the opportunity to join the Ensemble Studio next season. From those applications, 78 young singers from across the country were chosen for a live audition, which were held in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Toronto.
At the October 30 event, the finalists will sing one aria accompanied by the COC orchestra, with a live audience and judging panel to add to the excitement. They’re competing for cash prizes, along with the chance to become part of the COC Ensemble Studio.
This year’s finalists:
- Chelsea Kolic, soprano — Hamilton, ON
- Olivia LaPointe, soprano — Fredericton, NB
- Ariana Maubach, mezzo-soprano — Toronto, ON
- Nicholas Murphy, bass-baritone — Charlottetown, PEI
- Emma Pennell, soprano — South River, ON / Corner Brook Indian Band – Mi’kmaq
- Mikelis Rogers, baritone – London, ON
- Ilanna Starr, mezzo-soprano — Montreal, QC / Washington, DC
Canadian actor and comedian Emma Hunter, of The Beaverton and Mr. D, will be the host for the evening.
This year’s judging panel:
- Roberto Mauro, COC Director of Artistic Operations & Planning
- Dorian Cox, Director of the COC Ensemble Studio
- Liz Upchurch, Head of Music, the COC Ensemble Studio
- Edith Wiens, soprano and an Officer of the Order of Canada
The Audience Choice Award winner will be chosen live by the in-house audience.
The COC’s Ensemble Studio program is a professional development program that looks to help young emerging opera stars launch their careers. Along with working experience in COC mainstage productions, the Ensemble Studio artists benefit from an immersive approach that includes working with coaches from all over the world, networking with international agents, and much more. The program is tailored to the needs and goals of its participants.
We’re wishing good luck to all seven talented young singers, and look forward to hearing them on stage.
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