Opera in the Ozarks at Inspiration Point

Opera in the Ozarks at Inspiration Point is an intensive eight-week summer training and performance program for young singers, selected from competitive national auditions. OIO has a venerable, continuous history of training young artists since 1950. For the 75th anniversary season, the long-awaited new Inspiration Point Opera Theater opens with a festive gala on May 31 featuring distinguished, world-renowned alumni artists and the 2025 Company.

New for 2025 applicants: four full-scholarship awards will be reserved for artists applying and auditioning by video before December 15. Also, artists seeking early decision admission and scholarship aid will also be considered. Those selected for these awards and admission will be notified by December 23 and will commit to joining the OIO 2025 Company by January 8. Those not selected for early decision will be considered for admission and financial aid in February.

No other training institute for young artists offers the scope and depth of total immersion into the process of preparing multiple performances of operas in the original language with orchestra. Alumni of Opera in the Ozarks have sung in the major opera houses of the world; many others teach at prestigious colleges and universities. Artists are trained, conducted, coached and encouraged by a supportive, professional staff. Included is all training, coaching, workshops, and nurturing required to present opera in full productions—scenery, lights, costumes, wigs — accompanied by a professional orchestra.

We select only 45 promising young vocalists, so with seven or eight performances of each opera and roles only double cast, all are assured of great opportunities for growth in and out of the spotlight. Numerous performances of the Studio Artist outreach opera for children will be presented in venues throughout Northwest Arkansas.

In addition to extensive performance opportunities, OIO artists benefit from:

• Daily classes alternating stage skills and movement/dance

• Offerings in related skills: stage combat, master classes and career development sessions, taught by resident, guest and OIO alumni artists

• Resident voice teachers offer weekly lessons, classes and attend rehearsals leading up to openings to offer their insights to assure artists’ best performances.

• Experienced and supportive vocal coaches, directors and conductors guide you to bring your best to the stage

• In July, daily musical theatre workshop leads to two popular Broadway Cabaret evenings

• Emerging Artists will be featured in principal and supporting roles in two productions. Lesser experienced Studio Artists are featured in their own traveling children’s opera production. All artists support their colleagues in the chorus.