Highlands Opera Studio

Operating out of Haliburton, Ontario, since its creation in 2007, Highlands Opera Studio (produced by Highlands Opera Theatre, a not-for-profit nationally registered charity) is a professional performing arts organization for emerging operatic artists. An advanced summer professional training program and professional development resource to assist singers/pianists make the transition into the professional world, the focus is not only on performance and production excellence, but on top level coaching and professional development/networking with the goal of expanding employment opportunities both nationally and internationally. Established opera professionals (international artist agents, vocal coaches, general directors of professional opera companies, etc.) are invited to interact with and advise our participants during the intensive 5 week August season, resulting in new connections, many leading to employment and/or artist representation (national and international).

In a non-pandemic year, core activities also include 17-19 live public events/ performances: multiple performances of 2-3 fully staged operas, 3-4 public masterclasses, 5-6 concerts (including operatic, musical theatre, and Art Song repertoire), free community events, and the Highlands Opera Community School, where local amateur singers can receive lessons and interact with the young visiting professionals of the main program.