Opera Australia
Young Artist Program
About the program
We are thrilled to introduce our new Opera Australia Young Artist Program (OAYAP) – an initiative that represents our commitment to the future of opera in Australia and beyond. Generously supported by Principal Patron, Maureen Wheeler AO, Opera Australia’s new Young Artist Program redefines the way we discover and nurture emerging talent.
The OAYAP is not just a training program; it’s an investment in the next generation of operatic talent. The Opera Australia Young Artist Program offers an 18-month intensive, full-time training program based both at The Opera Centre in Sydney and overseas. Up to six (6) young artists (4 singers, 1 repetiteur and 1 director) will reside in Sydney (moving allowance available) and be paid a full-time salary enabling them to fully engage with the program and concentrate on their career development. The ideal candidates will not only possess exceptional talent but also demonstrate creativity, adaptability, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of our art form.
What makes the program so exciting is the combination of rigorous training, real-world experience, and the chance to work alongside some of the best in the business. Our young artists will receive vocal and dramatic coaching, language classes, and career guidance. They’ll have opportunities to assist, cover roles, and even receive commissions, all while earning a full-time salary that allows them to fully dedicate themselves to their craft.
At Opera Australia, we believe that opera remains deeply relevant and exciting for today’s audiences. Through the OAYAP, we’re nurturing artists who can balance tradition with innovation, address contemporary issues, and connect with diverse communities.
Our program prepares young artists for the international stage by offering overseas experiences and collaborations with global partners. We’re committed to developing well-rounded performers who can navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing artistic landscape.
The Opera Australia Young Artist Program will be delivered in three stages over 18-months including onsite training at The Opera Centre in Sydney, an international residency and finally, advanced preparation, experience and professional integration into OA including roles and covers in OA events and productions at the Sydney Opera House.
There is no fee to apply to or to participate in the Opera Australia Young Artist application process or Program. On appointment, Opera Australia Young Artists receive a full-time salary for the duration of the program.
To aspiring opera singers, directors, and repetiteurs: if you dream of a career in opera and are ready to dedicate yourself to this exhilarating art form, we want to hear from you. The OAYAP could be your pathway to a brilliant future in the world of opera.
See Opera Australia Young Artist Program for more information on eligibility and application criteria.
Application Summary
- Round One – Online Application, including audition material.
- Round Two – Applicants will be shortlisted and invited to attend an interview/audition before the Opera Australia panel.
- Round Three – Finalists will be invited to attend a 2-3 day workshop at The Opera Centre, Sydney. Successful applicants will be notified after this workshop.
Applications close 9am Monday October 21, 2024.
You will be advised via email if you have been successful in Round #1.
For any enquiries about this role please contact youngartistprogram@opera.org.au
About Opera Australia
Opera Australia is one of the world’s most celebrated opera companies with an ambition to bring an Australian stamp to telling great stories through music and song, and a commitment to develop and nurture new generations of Australian talent on and off the stage.
Opera Australia is the largest and busiest performing arts organisation in Australia, with over 800 opera performances a year, including opera seasons in Sydney and Melbourne, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, musical theatre, opera concerts and a range of other activities. Through its touring arm, the Company reaches out to communities in regional Australia, and also delivers an extensive program to school students. Opera performances are broadcast and distributed nationally and internationally.
The Company manages the Opera Australia Orchestra and also works in partnership with Orchestra Victoria. The Company works with leading directors and designers, and employs a large number of highly skilled people in the areas of scenic construction and painting, wardrobe and wig-making, stage production, and management and administration. Overall, the Company plays a vital role in developing and sustaining a specialist skills base in this unique area of the performing arts.
For more about OA please refer to our website: opera.org.au
Opera Australia is committed to enabling and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness. Our team come from all walks of life. We acknowledge that all individual differences, life experiences, self-expression, and talent represent our culture and reputation of Opera Australia. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring in terms of education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression.
