International Opera Company of the Month: Opera Lyra Ottawa

In 1999, OLO expanded upon its programming when Tyrone Paterson, OLO's current Artistic Director, founded the Young Artists Training Programme. The program has grown in stature and structure and is now known as the OLO Opera Studio Program. It remains one of the few Canadian training programs for up-and-coming Canadian opera professionals during the early stage of their careers. The OLO Opera Studio offers a blend of professional instruction and practical experience for aspiring Canadian singers, stage directors, conductor/repetiteurs and stage managers. Many of the program's former members have moved on to appear in mainstage productions in Canada and abroad.

In 2002 Opera Lyra Ottawa was awarded the prestigious Lieutenant Governor Award for the Arts for its outstanding achievements in private sector support and increased community involvement.

Opera Lyra believes that education in the performing arts is vital to its community, and offers a variety of programs to introduce children and youths to the power and beauty of opera. These programs, which include student-only performances and productions complete with teacher resources, help to foster an appreciation for the art form and lasting memories for thousands of young people in the National Capital Region each year. The company's most recent achievement in its education outreach has been the addition of a student-only matinee for one mainstage opera each year, which was made possible through the support of local entrepreneur Michael Potter.

The 2012-2013 production season will continue with LA TRAVIATA taking the stage March 21 and 23 at the NAC - Southern Hall. For tickets, please click here.

To learn more about Opera Lyra Ottawa, click here.

If you know of an international performance company we should feature, send your suggestions to romi@broadwayworld.com

Info courtesy of OLO. Photo Credit: Sam Garcia, OLO.

Related Links

Around the Broadway World: Regional Highlights for the Week of 12/10 by BWW Special Coverage - December 14, 2012

International Opera Company of the Month: Outcast Opera Company by BWW Features - December 11, 2012