Producing quality opera of an international standard is a very rewarding yet expensive business requiring great vision and high levels of performance, direction and production.
The Opera Foundation was established in 2001 to ensure that funding is available to identify and foster local talent. The Foundation supports professional opera to ensure it can continue to provide opportunities for young talented artists to develop their craft.
For young artists to develop creatively and professionally, they need both training and regular performance opportunities. Embodied in the Trust Deed is the commitment to support high-quality, professional opera opportunities for local artists, audiences and theatre practitioners.
The Foundation supports our local and national professional opera companies. Grants have enabled local artists to benefit from vocal coaching with renowned International Accompanist and Repetiteur Sharolyn Kimmorley AM, and participate in stagecraft workshops with International Director Chuck Hudson.
The Foundation assists young artists to attend workshops and audition opportunities.
The Foundation presents local audiences with regular events and opportunities to meet both visiting and local artists and theatre practitioners who are part of the professional opera productions in Canterbury.
We support New Zealand Opera’s commitment to a truly national opera company.
“The Foundation’s support enabled me to attend the Lisa Gasteen National Opera school, and came at a time when I was seeking to make the leap to the next level professionally. I will never forget this amazing hand-up, and feel like I’ve now got a whole Foundation ‘family’. When I’m performing I know they’re right there behind me, willing me to succeed.”
Amanda Atlas