The Opera Nova Project Summer Academy will open its doors to the public this July, offering rare behind-the-scenes access to observe world-class vocal training and performance in action.
Both opera lovers and the opera-curious will soon have the chance to witness the art of opera and classical singing training from rehearsal to recital under the guidance of global stars such as Joseph Calleja and Janis Kelly.
As part of the Opera Nova Project’s first International Summer Academy in collaboration with Teatru Manoel, the public can watch the transformative power of professional vocal coaching in real-time at a series of open masterclasses, a live Q&A and a final Gala concert featuring the next generation of vocal talent.
Held from 28 June to 6 July at Teatru Manoel – in both Sala Isouard and on the main stage – the opera masterclasses bring together acclaimed coaches and talented young singers from Malta and abroad. World-renowned tenor Joseph Calleja, Professor Janis Kelly – Chair of Vocal Performance at the Royal College of Music in London – and Professor James Pearson, formerly of the Vienna State Opera, will guide these students as they refine their technique and performance skills in front of a live audience.
On Wednesday 2 July at 7pm, audiences can take part in a special Q&A with Joseph Calleja and Janis Kelly. Held on the main stage of Teatru Manoel following Calleja’s masterclass, this session offers the public the rare opportunity to ask questions and explore the world of opera through the eyes of two internationally celebrated performers.
Audiences can also celebrate the grand finale of the Opera Nova Project Summer Academy at a special concert on Sunday 6 July at 7.30pm, where outstanding local and international singers will showcase their progress in a programme of operatic arias and art songs.
The Summer Academy follows closely on the heels of the Opera Nova Project’s production in May, which marked the conclusion of its inaugural academic year whereby students honed their operatic craft with first-class local tutors and international experts such as Emma Bell, Joyce Fieldsend, Tatiana Lisnic, Claire Debono, Hedwig Fassbender, Paul McNamara and Adrian Kelly. Staged at Theatre Next Door, the performance featured fully staged and costumed scenes from a diverse repertoire including Carmen, La Boheme, Der Freischutz, Eugene Onegin, Cosi Fan Tutte, The Turn of the Screw and L’Elisir d’Amore, with students tackling works by some of the world’s finest composers.
“The voice is such a unique instrument and opera, such a unique genre of singing,” says Gillian Zammit, Artistic Director of the Opera Nova Project and co-founder alongside acclaimed opera director and acting coach, Denise Mulholland. “For anyone interested in how the voice works, how a masterclass works, or anyone who just loves singing and would like to understand a little more about the process, this is an unmissable opportunity to delve a little deeper – or take your first steps – into the world of opera, through watching how some of the best opera performers in the world train.”
Tickets for public events, including the open opera masterclasses, Q&A and final recital, are available at www.teatrumanoel.mt. The Opera Nova Project is generously supported by Archbishop’s Delegate for Culture (ADFC), The Farsons Foundation, Rotary Club La Valette Malta and BOV Joseph Calleja Foundation. For further information, contact info@operanovaproject.com
