DALLAS OPERA MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Contact: Suzanne Calvin 214.443.1014 or suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org
Still Bigger Than the Lone Star State!
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THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
FROM ACCOMPLISHED, EMERGING ARTISTS ACROSS THE U.S.
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2019 Co-Chairs Dr. Susan Fleming & Linda McKown
Honorary Chairs, Holly and Tom Mayer
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TDO Orchestra and Finalists Will Be Conducted By
Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director
Emmanuel Villaume
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Semi-Finals on Thursday, May 2, 2019 – Beginning at 11 a.m.
Finals Round Scheduled for Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
General Admission Tickets Just $5
Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House
The AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas, Texas
DALLAS, TX, SEPTEMBER 12, 2018 – The Dallas Opera is pleased to announce that applications for the Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition, scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. (the free Semi-Finals Round, open to the public) and Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. (Finals Round) are now being accepted.
Applications MUST be submitted via YAP Tracker, along with a $35 entry fee. Go to www.dallasopera.org/vocal for the link. The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. (Central Time) on Sunday, November 18, 2018.
Those chosen by preliminary round judges to advance to the competition semifinals in the acoustically acclaimed Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center will be personally notified in January 2019, with a public announcement of the semi-finalists to follow in early February.
Competitors in the 2018 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. The 2019 Competition—Co-Chairs Dr. Susan Fleming and Linda McKown—will offer similar rewards along with the chance to perform with a major orchestra and a world-class conductor.
Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age may apply and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition originally focused on young artists with Texas roots or Lone Star academic connections, and its many distinguished alumni include luminaries from throughout the opera world: Latonia Moore, Clifton Forbis, Marjorie Owens, Weston Hurt, Steven LaBrie, Amanda Woodbury, Jesus Garcia, Anthony Clark Evans, Kang Wang, Virginie Verrez, Samantha Hankey, Laura Wilde, Kihun Yoon, and—most recently—Mario Rojas, Josh Lovell and Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen.
As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes three years ago, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” The evolution has continued:
- In order to attract the most talented applicant pool with the greatest potential, the eligibility criteria for applicants changed. Today, it is open to residents of all 50 states and U.S. Territories, including international students attending American colleges, universities, and music conservatories. Also eligible are active members of any young artist program associated with an American opera company.
- During the Finals Round, taking place on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7:30 pm in the Winspear Opera House, singers will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra and conducted by the internationally acclaimed Emmanuel Villaume, The Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director. Up to six finalists will participate, singing two arias each.
The impact of these changes was immediately perceived. Senior Classical Music Critic Gregory Sullivan Isaacs of theaterjones.com wrote: “The results surely exceeded expectations for this newly re-envisioned competition…It won’t take long to situate itself at the top of such events and become an important gold star on any young artist’s résumé.”
Judges for the expanded 31st Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition will be drawn from distinguished performers and opera administrators including Ian Derrer, The Dallas Opera’s Kern Wildenthal General Director & CEO and Maestro Villaume.
The Dallas Opera is very pleased to announce the return of renowned arts administrator, educator and adjudicator Dr. Brian Zeger as Chair of the Judges Panel for the 2019 Vocal Competition. On the faculty of The Juilliard School since 1993 and Artistic Director of Vocal Arts at Juilliard since 2004, Dr. Zeger is also the former Executive Director of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Program.
A prominent broadcast professional and frequent guest on the Metropolitan Opera radio broadcasts, Dr. Zeger has also contributed critical essays for publications such as Opera News, Chamber Music Magazine and The Yale Review. He has participated in countless summer festivals: Ravinia, Santa Fe, Caramoor, Aldeburgh and Aspen, as well as the Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival where he served as artistic director from 1993-2000. This native New Yorker has also adjudicated the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, the Concert Artists Guild Auditions and the Walter W. Naumberg Vocal Competition.
This year’s honorees are Holly and Dr. Tom Mayer for their tremendous dedication and support of The Dallas Opera and its commitment to young artists. Most recently, Holly served as Chairman of The Dallas Opera (2016-2018) and continues to guide the company as a member of The Dallas Opera Board Executive Committee.
“I am delighted that Dr. Brian Zeger will once again be working with The Dallas Opera to enable the 2019 Guild Vocal Competition to fulfill its mission of heightening awareness, creating career opportunities, and rewarding the most exceptional talents of this generation,” explains Maestro Emmanuel Villaume.
I look forward to working with the Guild, these remarkable young people, and The Dallas Opera Orchestra to give patrons an unforgettable evening of world-class entertainment.”
Dallas Opera Guild Co-Presidents James and Jan Clay remarked, “Our exciting annual competition is the most high-profile facet of The Dallas Opera Guild’s yearlong commitment to support exceptionally talented young opera artists. The future of opera, not only in Texas—but throughout the world—is dependent on the discovery and development of bright new talent. The Guild takes that part of our mission very seriously and we encourage everyone in the community to turn out next spring to show their support for these fine young singers, as well.
Linda McKown, one of the 2019 Co-Chairs for the annual competition, writes: “I’m excited to be getting more involved with the Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition and doing what I can to help Susan Fleming carry out the Guild’s responsibilities. I feel it is so important to give these young opera singers the opportunity to perform with our superb maestro, Emmanuel Villaume, conducting The Dallas Opera Orchestra!”
Adds Co-Chair Dr. Susan Fleming, “The Dallas Opera Guild is extremely proud of the many professional voices in development that we have fostered for more than three decades. We are eager to hear those who will be selected this year—twenty from over 300 applicants—and look forward to hosting a large audience on May 2 and 3, 2019.
“We encourage YOU to be part of the crowd that comes to the Winspear Opera House to cheer them on!”
General admission tickets are just $5 apiece and may be purchased at 214.443.1000 or online at www.dallasopera.org.
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HISTORY OF THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION:
In February of 1987, then-Dallas Opera Guild Presidents Connie and Jerry Klemow proposed establishing a Guild-sponsored scholarship fund to financially assist qualified singers seeking a career in opera. With the approval of The Dallas Opera management and the enthusiastic support of Artistic Director Nicola Rescigno, a committee comprised of Pat Blankenship, Nora Sands and Maria Santarelli, chaired by Connie Klemow, was entrusted to formulate a plan. Soon, the committee welcomed the assistance of then-General Director Plato Karayanis, company dramaturg Roger Pines and Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic John Ardoin.
Mr. Ardoin suggested a grants program be established in lieu of a scholarship fund or a competition. His suggestion was considered and the concept accepted. It was decided to focus on applicants from North Texas, ages 18-35 with some professional experience. Roger Pines named the program “The Career Development Grant for Singers” (CDGS) and after 20 months of planning the first CDGS program was presented on October 8, 1988 at SMU’s Caruth Auditorium.
However, for any program to remain dynamic, change and growth must occur. During these past 27 years there have been many changes. From the initial grants program, the concept evolved into The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition which, until 2014, was focused on vocalists with a Texas connection, both natives and temporary residents. A “People’s Choice Award” and Encouragement Awards were added and, today, financial awards are given directly to the winners to use at their discretion. Through this event, the Guild continues to recognize and honor members of The Dallas Opera community who have demonstrated a special interest in promoting the careers of talented young singers, or, have given exceptional support to The Dallas Opera and the Guild. Jonathan Pell, former Artistic Director of The Dallas Opera, led the Judge’s panel for the first 26 years.
The vocal competition was significantly reimagined and expanded in its 27th year to allow applicants from all 50 states and U.S. Territories. Dr. Brian Zeger, Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts and former Executive Director for the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera now chairs a judge’s panel that includes leading figures in American Opera administration and classical music.
The competition was expanded to take place over a two-day period. Participants in 2019 will be heard during Thursday’s semi-finals and the selected finalists will perform again Friday evening, accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra under the direction of the Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume. Both events are held in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House in the AT&T Performing Arts Center.
The Dallas Opera Guild remains dedicated to its original commitment to recognize, honor and support exceptionally talented young singers. The distributed award monies are funded anew each year. Guild members graciously donate their time, energy, money and talents to ensure that this prestigious annual competition succeeds in cultivating the next generation of world-class artists.
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ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA
Founded in 1957, The Dallas Opera is an internationally-recognized innovator dedicated to the overall advancement of the operatic art form and the support of established and emerging artists, as well as the education and development of new opera audiences in North Texas—and beyond. These goals are achieved by commissioning and producing world-class opera; through ground-breaking institutes, national competitions and topical programs; and by presenting opera in both traditional and non-traditional formats and venues in order to attract patrons of every age, background, educational level, and ethnicity—while engaging with more than 87,000 people in our community each year. TDO is equally committed to the task of responsible stewardship and is managed with efficiency and accountability, to the highest possible standards.
2018-2019 SEASON SPONSOR
The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family
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EVENTS, GUESTS AND ARTISTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA
IS AVAILABLE ONLINE, 24/7. VISIT WWW.DALLASOPERA.ORG
FOR HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPHS
Contact Suzanne Calvin, Director of Media and PR at suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org
The Dallas Opera is supported, in part, by funds from: Elsa von Seggern Foundation, Texas Instruments Foundation, the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs; the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). American Airlines is the official airline of The Dallas Opera. Lexus is the official vehicle of The Dallas Opera.
Advertising support from The Dallas Morning News.
The Dallas Opera Family Performances are generously supported by
Texas Instruments, Lockheed Martin, and
The Betty and Steve Suellentrop Educational Outreach Fund
TDO Family Performances are a part of the
Perot Foundation Education and Community Outreach Programs
TICKET INFORMATION FOR THE 2018-2019 DALLAS OPERA SEASON
All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise indicated. Full and Flex Subscriptions are on sale now; single tickets range from $19 to $289. Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.
THE DALLAS OPERA 2018-2019 MAINSTAGE SEASON
The Dallas Opera celebrates its 62nd International Season in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in the Dallas Arts District. Evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees begin at 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated. English translations will be projected above the stage at every performance and assistance is available for the hearing impaired. With the exception of FIRST NIGHT, The Joy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain, at most performances.
THE FLYING DUTCHMAN by Richard Wagner
October 12, 14 (m), 17 & 20, 2018
The season sets sail with Wagner’s sweeping, romantic masterpiece – not seen in Dallas since 1994!
Time: the German Expressionist 1920s
Place: the coast of Norway
Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume
Original Director: Christopher Alden
Set Designer: Allen Moyer
Costume Designer: Allen Moyer
Lighting Designer: Anne Militello
Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Greer Grimsley (The Dutchman), Anja Kampe* (Senta), Jay Hunter Morris (Erik), Mark S. Doss (Daland), Luretta Bybee (Mary) and Andrew Stenson (Steersman).
CARMEN by Georges Bizet
October 19, 21 (m), 24, 27, November 2 & 4 (m), 2018
The woman who won’t be owned returns to The Dallas Opera stage!
Libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy
Time: 19th century
Place: Seville, Spain and the surrounding countryside
Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume and Pierre Vallet (10/24 and 11/2)
Original Director: Sir David McVicar
Revival Director: Jack Furness**
Set Designer: Michael Vale*
Costume Designer: Sue Blane*
Lighting Designer: Clare O’Donoghue*
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Original Choreographer: Andrew George
Revival Choreographer: Andrzej Glosniak**
Starring: Stephanie D’Oustrac* (Carmen), Stephen Costello (Don José), Vanessa Vasquez* (Micaëla), Alexander Vinogradov (Escamillo), Sarah Tucker* (Frasquita), Lindsay Metzger* (Mercédès), Rafael Moras (El Remendado), Corey Crider (El Dancairo), Ben Wager (Zuniga), Gideon Dabi* (Morales).
MANON LESCAUT by Giacomo Puccini
March 1, 3 (m), 6, 9, 2019
The woman who has everything discovers too late that she has nothing – without true love!
Libretto by Domenico Oliva and Luigi Illica
Time: Late 18th century
Place: France and America
Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume
Director: Ed Berkeley
Set Designer: TBA
Costume Designer: TBA
Lighting Designer: Krista Billings
Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Kristin Lewis* (Manon Lescaut), Musa Ngqungwana (Lescaut), Gregory Kunde (Chevalier des Grieux), Geronte de Ravoir (Andrea Silvestrelli), Jonas Hacker* (Edmondo), Mark S. Doss (Innkeeper), Alyssa Martin (Singer), Matthew Grills (Dance Master), Clay Hilley* (Lamplighter), Mark McCrory (Sergeant of the Royal Archers) and David Leigh* (Naval Captain).
LA BOHÈME by Giacomo Puccini
March 15, 17 (m), 20, 23, 29, 31 (m), 2019
The most timeless love story in all of opera returns to break your heart!
Libretto by Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica
Time: 19th century
Place: The Latin Quarter of Paris, France
Conductor: Giuliano Carella
Director: Tomer Zvulun
Set Designer: Erhard Rom
Costume Designer: Peter J. Hall
Lighting Designer: Robert Wierzel
Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Jean-Francois Borras* (Rodolfo), Pumeza Matshikiza* (Mimi), Anthony Clark Evans* (Marcello), Sara Gartland (Musetta), Will Liverman* (Schaunard), Nicholas Brownlee* (Colline), and Samuel Ramey (Benoit/Alcindoro).
FALSTAFF by Giuseppe Verdi
April 26, 28 (m), May 1, 4, 2019
Shakespeare’s uproarious comedy brought to musical life!
Libretto by Arrigo Boito
Time: During the reign of Henry IV of England
Place: Windsor
Conductor: Riccardo Frizza
Original Director: Lee Blakeley
Revival Director: Shawna Lucey
Set Designer: Adrian Linford
Costume Designer: Adrian Linford
Lighting Designer: Rick Fisher
Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Mark Delevan* (Sir John Falstaff), Angela Meade* (Alice Ford), Quinn Kelsey* (Ford), Mojca Erdmann* (Nanetta), Airam Hernandez* (Fenton), Stephanie Blythe* (Dame Quickly), Megan Marino* (Meg Page), Alex Mansoori* (Bardolfo), Andrea Silvestrelli (Pistola), and Robert Brubaker (Dr. Caius).
* Dallas Opera Debut
** American Debut
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