20 Semi-Finalists Named for 2019 Guild Vocal Competition Hosted by Miss America Nia Franklin

Winners of the 2018 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition (Photo by Karen Almond)

Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin, opera singer and arts advocate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Friday, February 8, 2019

Contact: Suzanne Calvin 214.443.1014

Twenty Semi-Finalists Have Been Selected

To Compete for Awards and Cash Prizes at The 31^st Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition

With The Dallas Opera Orchestra

Conducted by Riccardo Frizza

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Emceed by Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin

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Semi-Finals: Thursday, May 2, 2019 11 am

Finals Concert: Friday, May 3, 2019 7:30 pm

The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House

AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas, TX

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2019 Co-Chairs Dr. Susan Fleming & Linda McKown

Honoring Holly and Dr. Tom Mayer

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$5 Tickets and Information at dallasopera.org/vocal

DALLAS, TX, FEBRUARY 8, 2019 – Twenty of the finest young opera singers in the United States will be competing in the 31^ST Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition presented, jointly, by The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild.

The artists will compete onstage in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas on Thursday, May 2 & Friday, May 3, 2019. At stake are thousands of dollars in generous cash awards and prestigious honors including the “People’s Choice Award” selected during the Finals Round by audience ballot.

The 2019 Guild Vocal Competition is being co-chaired by Susan Fleming, Ph.D., and Linda McKown and the Finals Round will be emceed by Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin, a classically trained opera singer, composer, and advocate for the arts.

The quest for these gifted young singers will begin with the Semi-Finals Round of the Vocal Competition taking place on Thursday, May 2, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Tickets are free and can be obtained at www.dallasopera.org/vocal.

Six finalists will be selected that day to return the following evening for the Finals Round Concert on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. At that time, the remaining competitors will perform with The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by the internationally renowned Italian Maestro Riccardo Frizza, Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy.

Concert tickets are just $5 and available at the door, by calling The Dallas Opera Ticket Office at 214.443.1000, or online at www.dallasopera.org/vocal.

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This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Director of Artistic Administration for The Dallas Opera. These semi-finalists were among a group of 307 applicants from 36 states.

THE 2019 SEMI-FINALISTS

THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

Lindsay Kate Brown, mezzo-soprano, Houston Grand Opera Studio / Des Moines Metro Opera Apprentice Artist Program
Jeff Byrnes, baritone, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis Gerdine Young Artists Program
Anthony Ciaramitaro, tenor, Santa Fe Opera Apprentice Program / Merola Opera Program
Lauren Decker, contralto, The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago
Ben Edquist, baritone, Houston Grand Opera Studio
Calvin Griffin, bass-baritone, Marion Roose Pullin Arizona Opera Studio
Pureum Jo, soprano, Houston Grand Opera Studio
Meghan Kasanders, soprano, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School
Andrew Manea, baritone, Adler Fellowship at San Francisco Opera
Felicia Moore, soprano, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School
Rafael Moras, tenor, Santa Fe Apprentice Program / Domingo Colburn Stein Young Artists Los Angeles Opera
John Matthew Myers, tenor, Academy of Vocal Arts
Diana Newman, soprano, The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago
Ndumiso Nyoka, tenor, Southern Methodist University
Christopher Oglesby, tenor, San Francisco Opera Adler Fellowship / Utah Opera Resident Artist
Emmett O’Hanlon, baritone, The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago
Christian Pursell, bass-baritone, Adler Fellowship at San Francisco Opera
Abigail Rethwisch, soprano, Santa Fe Apprentice Program / Utah Opera Resident Artist
Reginald Smith, Jr., baritone, Winner of Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions / Houston Grand Opera Studio
Xiaomeng Zhang, baritone, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School

Competitors in the 2018 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age were eligible to apply and considered on a case-by-case basis.

As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes in 2015, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” The evolution didn’t stop there:

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, competing artists will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra, guided in 2019 by noted guest conductor Riccardo Frizza. 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.”

Winners in 2015 and in the years since have included J’nai Bridges, Anthony Clark Evans, Kang Wang, Virginie Verrez, Samantha Hankey (the 2018 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions Grand Finals winner), Laura Wilde, Kihun Yoon, and, most recently, Mario Rojas, Josh Lovell and last year’s top prize winner – countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen.

The special guest emcee for this year’s Finals Round, Nia Franklin, is the reigning Miss America who wowed the audience and judges during the competition with her rendition of “Quando m’en Vo” from La bohème. Ms. Franklin is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts where she studied music composition.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the 31st Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition!” writes Ms. Franklin. “It is such an honor to emcee this competition featuring the best young opera singers from around the country as they share their talent and dedication for all of Dallas to see!”

This year’s honorees are Holly and Tom Mayer for their tremendous dedication, service and support of The Dallas Opera and its commitment to emerging and developing artists. Most recently, Holly served as Chairman of The Dallas Opera (2016-2018) and she continues to guide and inspire the company as a member of The Dallas Opera Board Executive Committee.

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 before a live audience with Maestro Frizza conducting the outstanding Dallas Opera Orchestra.”

Adds Co-Chair 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!”

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Lexus Red Parking beneath the Winspear Opera House is free for the Semi-Finals Round, from 11:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 2. Parking is $6 for the Finals Round of the competition the following evening, Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.

The list of esteemed judges for the 2019 Vocal Competition reads like a music industry “Who’s Who.”

Judges for the 2019 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Peter Czornyj

Vice President of Artistic Operations, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Ian Derrer

The Kern Wildenthal General Director & CEO, The Dallas Opera

Dominic Domingo

Director of Artistic Administration, San Diego Opera

Riccardo Frizza

Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy

David Lomeli

Director of Artistic Administration, The Dallas Opera

Andreas Melinat

Vice President, Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Evamaria Wieser

Casting Director, Salzburg Festival

Brian Zeger, Chair

Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

The Juilliard School

However, the judging isn’t left entirely to the professionals; “amateur” music lovers will have the opportunity to express their views, too. Audience participation is part of the fun at each year’s Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition. For the nineteenth consecutive year, attendees will be given the chance to vote on their personal favorites to receive the coveted “People’s Choice Award.”

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RICCARDO FRIZZA CONDUCTOR

Award-winning Italian maestro Riccardo Frizza is a galvanizing presence on the podium, inspiring performances as exhilarating as they are expressive. Championed by Alberto Zedda, Bruno Cagli, and Gian Carlo Menotti, he is a leading exponent of the bel canto repertoire, collaborating with a who’s who of today’s most iconic singers at opera houses from Milan’s Teatro alla Scala to the Metropolitan Opera in New York. In the concert hall, he graces the podiums of such world-class ensembles as the Leipzig Gewandhaus, Rome’s Orchestra dell’Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, London’s Philharmonia Orchestra, and the Tokyo Symphony, while his extensive discography includes Decca’s Una furtiva lagrima, winner of the 2004 Cannes Classical Award.

Highlights of Riccardo Frizza’s last season included Falstaff at Festival Verdi di Parma, La Traviata at New National Theatre in Tokyo, Il barbiere di Siviglia at the Opéra National de Paris, Norma in Tokyo, Luisa Miller at Zürich Opera, L’elisir d’amore and Norma at Teatro La Fenice in Venice, Semiramide at the Bavarian State Opera and Il pirata at Teatro alla Scala in Milan. In September 2017, Maestro Frizza was named Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy. Having already conducted Roberto Devereux at San Francisco Opera, in other season highlights, he will appear at the podium of La Fenice three times (for three different productions), will return to Bilbao in order to conduct his debut performance of Verdi’s I Lombardi, and will conduct Falstaff in The Dallas Opera’s spring season finale in 2019.

NIA IMANI FRANKLIN (MISS AMERICA 2019)

Classically trained opera singer and advocate for the arts

Nia Franklin was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and lived in the state through graduate school. She earned an undergraduate degree in composition from East Carolina University, and a master’s in fine arts from The University of North Carolina’s School of the Arts. Shortly thereafter, Nia was awarded a Kenan Fellowship at New York’s Lincoln Center Education and made the move to New York City. She currently resides in Brooklyn.

During Nia Franklin’s college freshman year, her father was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and she became his stem cell donor. This turn of events led Nia to the Miss America Organization. “I had to find a way to pay for myself to go to school and so I entered this competition and this organization and it became much more than just the scholarship money for me, it was also about the mentorship, leadership and sisterhood you find in this program.”

Nia was crowned Miss Five Boroughs at the age of 23, and then went on to win Miss New York 2018. And was awarded the job of Miss America 2019 on September 9, 2018.

Ms. Franklin has been a teacher and music mentor, and has written over 100 songs, including one she began performing at age five. (The lyrics begin: “Love, love, love, love, love is the only thing that matters to me…”). For the Miss America 2019 competition, Franklin sang “Quando m’en Vo’” from Puccini’s La bohème and wowed audiences and judges alike.

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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, it must grow and evolve. During these past three decades there have been many changes, including the additions of a “People’s Choice Award,” and a significant name change to “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition” in 2004.

From the initial grants program, the concept evolved into an annual competition that, until 2014, focused on vocalists with a Texas connection, both home-grown and temporary residents. 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, under the leadership of former Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny, 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 music administration and classical music.

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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SPECIAL THANKS

TO THE AT&T PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AND STAFF

FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE

2019 DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

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2018-2019 SEASON SPONSOR

The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family

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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.

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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. Flex Subscriptions are on sale now; single tickets range from $19 to $289 (excluding boxes). 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: SPRING

The Dallas Opera celebrates its 62ndInternational 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.

MANON LESCAUT by Giacomo Puccini

Semi-Staged Concert, March 1, 3 (m), 6, 9, 2019

Featuring images of select art works from the collections of The Dallas Museum of Art!

The woman who has everything discovers too late that she has nothing – without true love!

Libretto by Domenico Oliva and Luigi Illica

Time: Late 18^th century

Place: France and America

Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume

Director: Ed Berkeley

Costume Designer: Tommy Bourgeois

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), Andrea Silvestrelli (Geronte de Ravoir), 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: 19^th 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-François 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 and Costume Designer: Adrian Linford*

Lighting Designer: Rick Fisher*

Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard

Chorus Master: Alexander Rom

Starring: Mark Delavan* (Sir John Falstaff), Angela Meade (Alice Ford), Quinn Kelsey* (Ford), Mojca Erdmann* (Nanetta), Airam Hernández* (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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Applications Now Being Accepted for 2019 TDO Guild Vocal Competition

2018 First Prize Winner – Countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen (Photo by Karen Almond, Dallas Opera)

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.

Judges for the expanded 31^st 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.”

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:

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.

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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

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 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: 19^th 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 18^th 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: 19^th 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

_____________________________________________________________________________________

###

And the winners are….

“AND THE WINNERS ARE…”
Top Honors Announced This Evening

In the 30^th Annual

Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition

~~~~

Outstanding Young Artists Awarded

$18,500 in Cash Prizes

~~~~

Countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen

Takes Top Prize and $10,000 Cash!

~~~~

Second Prize ($5,000) Goes to Canadian Tenor Josh Lovell

~~~~

Third Prize ($2,500) Awarded to Mexican Tenor Mario Rojas

~~~~

The “People’s Choice Award” ($1,000) Determined by Audience Ballot Goes to Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen

~~~~

Springs Gala Co-Chairs, Susan Geyer and Lynn Mock

~~~~

Phyllis and Tom McCasland Honored for Their Generous Support of The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild

DALLAS, APRIL 28, 2018 – An elite group of twenty of the most talented young opera singers in the country competed this weekend for prestige and cash prizes in the 30^th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition. At the conclusion of this evening’s exciting Finals Round, the thrilling centerpiece of The Dallas Opera’s annual Springs Gala co-chaired by Susan Geyer and Lynn Mock, the winners were announced from the stage of the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas:

The $10,000 Bessylee Penland First Prize, presented by 2018 Vocal Competition Co-Chairs Patsy and Bob Brooks, was awarded to American countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen
The $5,000 Second Prize, presented by 2018 Dallas Opera Guild Co-Presidents Jan and James Clay, went to Canadian tenor Josh Lovell
The Third Prize of $2,500, was presented by this year’s special honorees, Phyllis and Tom McCasland, to Mexican tenor Mario Rojas
The $1,000 “People’s Choice Award,” presented by Katherine and Michael Phillips, was awarded to countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen

This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected from a group of 310 applicants from 35 states (residents of the U.S. territories are eligible to apply for the prestigious competition, as well) by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Casting and Hart Institute for Women Conductors Manager.

“We are very proud to collaborate with our Guild on this extraordinary showcase,” says Kern Wildenthal, The Dallas Opera’s Interim General Director and CEO. “This is a great opportunity for the entire community to experience opera’s exciting ‘next wave,’ and to show their enthusiastic support for the dreams of these outstanding young artists—including those destined to dazzle us with their gifts for many years to come.”

The Semi-Finals Round took place yesterday, Friday, April 27^th as twenty young artists vied for the coveted position of finalist. The six finalists competed this evening, accompanied by the Dallas Opera Orchestra under the baton of the internationally renowned Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director, Emmanuel Villaume.

After lengthy deliberations from the judges’ panel, six singers were selected to move into today’s Finals Round: tenor Taylor Comstock, bass Patrick Guetti, tenor Josh Lovell, mezzo-soprano Lindsay Metzger, countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, and tenor Mario Rojas.

Dallas Opera Guild Co-Presidents Jan and James Clay explain, “Our exciting annual competition is the most high-profile facet of The Dallas Opera Guild’s year-long 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 are delighted at the number of people who turned out tonight to show their support for these fine young singers!”

Dallas Opera Guild 2018 Vocal Competition Chairs Patsy and Bob Brooks wrote: “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition gives singers pursuing a professional opera career the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete with other singers for financial rewards. Best of all is the chance to perform before a panel of distinguished judges celebrated throughout the opera world.”

The Finals Round was preceded by a seated gala dinner prepared by Wolfgang Puck Catering, as well as a special dinner for 100 high school and university students from Booker T. Washington High School for the Visual and Performing Arts, Southern Methodist University, Uplift Williams Preparatory, University of North Texas, University of Texas at Dallas, and Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center who attended the vocal competition finals this year.

~~~~

WINNERS BIOS

First Prize Winner and “People’s Choice Award”- ARYEH NUSSBAUM COHEN:

American countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen has been acclaimed as a “young star” and “complete artist” by The New York Times. In 2017, he was named a winner of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, First Prize Winner of the Houston Grand Opera Eleanor McCollum Competition, and a Sara Tucker Study Grant recipient from the Richard Tucker Music Foundation. This season, he is a member of the Houston Grand Opera Studio (the first countertenor in the studio’s history) and next season, he joins San Francisco Opera as an Adler Fellow. This summer, his first commercial recording will be released: the world premiere recording of Kenneth Fuchs’ “Poems of Life” with the London Symphony Orchestra.

During this evening’s Finals Round, Mr. Cohen performed “Inumano fratel…Stille amare” from Handel’s Tolomeo and “Dawn, still darkness” (Refugee’s Aria) from Jonathan Dove’s Flight.

Second Prize Winner JOSH LOVELL:

Canadian tenor Josh Lovell, a first-year member of The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago, was a 2017 semi-finalist at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. Mr. Lovell made his Lyric Opera of Chicago mainstage debut this season as The Emperor Altoum in Puccini’s Turandot. Other assignments included covers of the title role in Orphée et Eurydice, as well as Bruno and Arturo in I Puritani. Past operatic work includes Ferrando in Così fan tutte, Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi. An artist with the 2016 Merola Opera Program at San Francisco Opera, Mr. Lovell performed scenes from The Rake’s Progress and Le Comte Ory.

In today’s Finals Round, Josh Lovell performed “Languir per una bella” from Rossini’s L’italiana in Algeri and “Ah! Mes amis, quel jour de fête” from Donizetti’s La Fille du Regiment.

Third Prize Winner MARIO ROJAS:

Mexican tenor Mario Rojas is a first-year member of the Ryan Opera Center in Chicago. He has performed Rodolfo in La bohème at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, and elsewhere in Mexico, in addition to making his debut as Borsa in Rigoletto this season at Lyric Opera. He is an alumnus of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where he sang Don José in La Tragédie de Carmen and Nemorino in L’Elisir d’Amore. The tenor is one of the youngest singers ever to receive the Plácido Domingo Scholarship from SIVAM, Mexico’s most prominent young artist program.

In this evening’s Finals Round, Mr. Rojas performed “Che gelida manina” from La bohème by Giacomo Puccini and “Kuda, kuda” (Lenski’s Aria) from Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin.

~~~~

“This competition is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work at The Dallas Opera,” says Dallas Opera Music Director Emmanuel Villaume. “Although it doesn’t seem possible, the caliber of the singers improves every year, and inspires us to continue to support and develop this excellent and much-needed program.”

THE 2018 FINALISTS

FOR THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

Taylor Comstock, tenor, two-time regional finalist, MONCA
Patrick Guetti, bass, 2014 Grand Prize Winner MONCA, now at Ryan Center
Josh Lovell, tenor, Ryan Opera Center, formerly at Merola Opera Program
Lindsay Metzger, mezzo-soprano, Ryan Opera Center
Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, countertenor, Houston Grand Opera Studio
Mario Rojas, tenor, Ryan Opera Center, formerly San Francisco Conservatory of Music

Soprano Virginie Verrez, currently starring as Zerlina in The Dallas Opera’s acclaimed production of DON GIOVANNI, served as Mistress of Ceremonies with co-hosts Patsy and Bob Brooks.

Judges for the 2018 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair

Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

The Juilliard School

Emmanuel Villaume

The Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director, The Dallas Opera

Peter Czornyj

Vice President of Artistic Operations, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Kathleen Kelly

Associate Professor of Music, University of Michigan

Former Director of Music Studies, Vienna State Opera

Alain Lanceron

President of Warner Classics

Andreas Melinat

Vice President Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Pål Moe

Casting Director, Bavarian State Opera;

Casting Consultant, Glyndebourne Festival and Opéra de Lille

Audience members were also able to participate in the decision making by casting a ballot for their favorite singer for the “People’s Choice” award, now is its 18^th year.

SPRINGS GALA SPONSORS:

SOPRANO LEVEL SPONSORS

LYNN & PRESLEY MOCK

MEZZO STUDENT SPONSORS

SCOTT CHASE & DEBRA WITTER

CINDY & CHARLIE FELD

SUSAN & MARK GEYER

HAYNES & BOONE

HOLLY & TOM MAYER

LYNN & PRESLEY MOCK

KATHERINE & MICHAEL PHILLIPS

BETTY & STEVE SUELLENTROP

ELLEN & DON WINSPEAR

TENOR LEVEL SPONSORS

STEPHEN BAKER & ALBERTO MORENO

PATTI & JOHN CODY

LISA COOLEY

SUSAN FLEMING

CONNIE KLEMOW

MELINDA & MARK KNOWLES

DIANNE & MARK LaROE

PHYLLIS & TOM McCASLAND

NANCY A. NASHER & DAVID J. HAEMISEGGER

JON PETTEE

ENIKA & RICHARD SCHULZE

CAROLE & NORM SILVERMAN

JOANNA & PETER TOWNSEND

INGE & SAM VASTOLA

MARNIE & KERN WILDENTHAL

MEGAN & JOEY WILKINSON

BARITONE LEVEL SPONSORS

CAROLE BRADEN

DEBORAH HANKINSON

EDUCATION PROGRAM SPONSORS

CINDY & CHARLIE FELD

KATHERINE & MICHAEL PHILLIPS

BETTY & STEVE SUELLENTROP

SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL FOUNDATION

& KATHLEEN GIBSON

CONTRIBUTORS TO THE 2018 GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION INCLUDE:

KATHERINE & MICHAEL PHILLIPS

ENIKA & RICHARD SCHULZE

ELAINE & BILL BLAYLOCK

KETTY FITZGERALD

JAN & JAMES CLAY

THE PUCCINI SOCIETY OF DALLAS

~~~~

PATSY & BOB BROOKS

SANDI & DR. FRED CIAROCHI

SUSAN & BOB CRONIN

SUSAN & DR. MARK GEYER

MARILYN & WARD HALLA

NICOLE LeBLANC & MON VOYAGE, LLC

LYNN & PRESLEY MOCK

NEIL DOUGLAS OXFORD

& MRS. R.V. REGE

SANDRA & BILL SANDERSON

GREG SWALWELL & TERRY CONNOR

INGE & SAM VASTOLA

UNDERWRITERS OF THE 2018 COMPETITION INCLUDE:

GREG SWALWELL & TERRY CONNOR

KATHERINE & MICHAEL PHILLIPS

TEKNION DATA SOLUTIONS

For additional information about the 30^th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition or any upcoming Dallas Opera Guild programs and special events, please contact The Dallas Opera Guild at 214-443-1040.

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.

2017-2018 SEASON SPONSOR

The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family
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 2017-2018 DALLAS OPERA SEASON

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise indicated. 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 2017-2018 SPRING SEASON MAINSTAGE INFORMATION

The Dallas Opera celebrates its Sixty-FirstInternational 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 RING OF POLYKRATES & VIOLIN CONCERTO IN D MAJOR

A sweeping Viennese concerto paired with a charming domestic comedy!

By Erich Wolfgang Korngold

February 9, 11 (m), 14 and 17, 2018

Violin Soloist (KORNGOLD CONCERTO): Augustin Dumay*

The Dallas Opera Orchestra conducted by Emmanuel Villaume

THE RING OF POLYKRATES

Sumptuous Viennese music laced with orchestral color and wit!

Libretto by Leo Feld

Time: Early 20^th century

Place: Vienna, Austria

Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume

Director: Peter Kazaras

Set Designer: Donald Eastman*

Costume Designer: Tommy Bourgeois

Lighting Designer: Krista Billings

Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard

Starring: Paul Groves* (Wilhelm Arndt), Laura Wilde* (Laura), Brenton Ryan (Florian Döbllinger), Susannah Biller* (Lieschen), and Craig Colclough* (Peter Vogel).

One of the most rarely performed opera gems! In its third professional U.S. production!

SUNKEN GARDEN by Michel van der Aa

March 9, 11 (m), 14 and 17, 2018

A phenomenal visual, musical and emotional adventure – live and in 3-D!

Libretto by David Mitchell

Time: Present Day

Place: Unknown

Conductor: Nicole Paiement

Director: Michel van der Aa*

Set Designer: Theun Mosk**

Costume Designer: Astrid Schulz**

Lighting Designer: Theun Mosk**

Sound Designer: Tom Gelissen*

Starring: Roderick Williams* (Toby Kramer), Katherine Manley* (Zenna Briggs), and Miah Persson* (Iris Marinus).

Combining live actors and 2-D and 3-D film, to take you where opera has never gone before!

DON GIOVANNI by W.A. Mozart

April 13, 15 (m), 18, 21, 27 and 29 (m), 2018

Mozart’s operatic masterpiece brought vividly to life under the baton of Music Director Emmanuel Villaume!

Time: 20^th century

Place: Seville, Spain and the surrounding countryside

Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume

Director: Robert Falls*

Set Designer: Walt Spangler*

Costume Designer: Ana Kuzmanic*

Original Lighting Designer: Duane Schuler

Lighting Designer: Chris Maravich

Wig & Make-up Designer: Dawn Rivard

Chorus Master: Alexander Rom

Starring: Craig Verm (Don Giovanni), Laura Claycomb (Donna Anna), David Portillo* (Don Ottavio), Katie Van Kooten* (Donna Elvira), Kyle Ketelsen* (Leporello), Virginie Verrez* (Zerlina), André Courville* (Masetto), and Morris Robinson (The Commendatore).

An evocative and thrilling production from Lyric Opera of Chicago!

* Dallas Opera Debut

** American Debut

Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition Semi-Finalists Announced

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Contact: Suzanne Calvin 214.443.1014 Or Celeste Hart 214.443.1071
suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org celeste.hart@dallasopera.org

The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild
Are Proud to Jointly Announce the Outstanding

Semi-Finalists of the 29th Annual
“Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition”
~~~~
Admission $5! Lexus Red Parking $5!
Audience Members Vote on “People’s Choice”
Visit www.dallasopera.org/vocal
~~~~
Finals: Sunday, April 30, 2017, 7:30 p.m.
The Centerpiece of TDO’s Annual
Springs Gala: An Evening of Rising Stars
Conducted by Music Director Emmanuel Villaume
~~~~
The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House
At the AT&T Performing Arts Center
2403 Flora Street, Dallas, TX 75201
~~~~
Honoring Dr. Susan Fleming

DALLAS, FEBRUARY 7, 2017 –Twenty of the finest young opera singers in the United States will be competing in the 29th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition presented, jointly, by The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild.
These talented artists will compete onstage in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas on April 29 & 30, 2017. At stake are thousands of dollars in cash awards and coveted honors including the “People’s Choice Award” selected during the Finals Round by audience ballot. The competition will serve as the centerpiece of The Dallas Opera’s glamorous Springs Gala, an annual fundraising celebration of opera’s fast-rising stars.
Patrons have the option of attending
• The free Semi-Finals Round on April 29th
• The complete Springs Gala evening on April 30th
• The Finals Round and Awards Ceremony only on April 30th
• Or, the Finals Round, Awards Ceremony and the post-performance party!

Tickets range from absolutely free (for the April 29th Semi-Finals) to $5 for the Finals Round and Awards Ceremony (available online at dallasopera.org/vocal).
A $750 “host ticket” will cover the entire gala evening, including a seated, gourmet, pre-competition dinner at 5:30 p.m., early seating for the vocal competition Finals Round at 7:30 p.m., and an invitation to the festive post-competition celebration at the Winspear Opera House.
For more information about the 2017 Springs Gala, visit dallasopera.org/gala or contact Special Events Manager Tracy Mott at tracy.mott@dallasopera.org.

With a renewed focus on encouraging the next generation of opera artists and audiences, proceeds from this stellar evening will go to support the multifaceted education programs of The Dallas Opera.
Two great Dallas Opera traditions create one truly remarkable evening of music, competition and celebration! It is certain to be an affair—and a weekend—you won’t want to miss!

Commented Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny: “The Guild Competition took a bold step forward in recent years and the results have been electrifying! Emmanuel Villaume and The Dallas Opera Orchestra have brought a significant level of excitement to these performances and clearly inspired last year’s finalists to rise to the occasion.
“However, each competition brings an entirely new set of challenges and gives us additional opportunities to build upon our previous success.
“Working closely with Dr. Brian Zeger, our esteemed adjudicators, and the Guild itself, we continually seek new ways to attract the very finest young singers of this generation. Their presence on the Winspear stage also promises to make our second annual Springs Gala: An Evening of Rising Stars, one of the most sought-after tickets in town.
“I am also extremely pleased that, with the energetic leadership of Brian Zeger,” Cerny adds, “we have been able to assemble such a distinguished panel of industry leaders and decision makers to judge this stellar event, making it a unique showcase for artists ready to take their careers to a higher level.”

~~~~
This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected from a group of 364 applicants from 35 states—and one competitor currently residing in Germany (residents of the U.S. territories are eligible to apply for the prestigious competition, as well) by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Casting and Hart Institute for Women Conductors Manager.
The quest for these gifted young singers will begin with the Semi-Finals Round of the Vocal Competition at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 29, 2017.
Six finalists will be selected to return the following evening, Sunday, April 30th at 7:30 p.m., to perform with The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by internationally acclaimed Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume.

“I am very proud to collaborate with our Guild on the expanded national competition,” adds Keith Cerny, the Kern Wildenthal General Director and CEO. “This is an outstanding opportunity for the entire community to experience opera’s ‘next wave’ and to show their enthusiasm and support for the hopes and dreams of these deserving young artists.”

THE 2017 SEMI-FINALISTS
FOR THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

• Jared Bybee, baritone, age 30, Resident Artist at Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia
• Helena Brown, soprano, age 28, Resident Artist at Glimmerglass Festival
• Raehann Bryce-Davis, mezzo-soprano, age 30, Merola Opera Program Graduate
• Jacquelyn Stucker, soprano, age 27, Santa Fe Opera Apprentice Program Graduate
• Mane Galoyan, soprano, age 23, Currently at Houston Grand Opera Studio
• Leah Hawkins, soprano, age 26, Resident Artist at the Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program at Washington National Opera
• Takaoki Onishi, baritone, age 29, Member of the Ryan Center at Lyric Opera Chicago
• Theo Hoffman, baritone, age 23, Member of Domingo Colburn Stein Young Artists Los Angeles Opera
• Alasdair Kent, tenor, age 29, Resident Artist at Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia
• Alexandra Loutsion, soprano, age 33, Pittsburgh Opera Studio Graduate
• Alyssa Martin, mezzo-soprano, age 27, Member of the Arizona Opera Studio
• Meredith Mecum, soprano, age 31, Merola Opera Program Graduate
• Miles Mykkanen, tenor, age 25, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School of Music
• Daniel Noyola, bass-baritone, age 24, Resident Artist at Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia
• Mario Rojas, tenor, age 23, Member of the Ryan Center at Lyric Opera Chicago
• Brent Turner, tenor, age 33, 2016 McCammon Competition Winner
• Laura Wilde, soprano, age 30, Member of the Ryan Center at Lyric Opera Chicago
• Kihun Yoon, baritone, age 35, Member of Domingo Colburn Stein Young Artists Los Angeles Opera
• Samantha Hankey, mezzo-soprano, age 24, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School of Music
• Xiaomeng Zhang, baritone, age 23, Masters in Music at Manhattan School of Music Graduate

Competitors in the 2016 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age were eligible to apply and 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, J’nai Bridges, Anthony Clark Evans, and most recently, Kang Wang and Virginie Verrez.
As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes in 2015, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” The evolution didn’t stop there:

• 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.

• The Finals Round, taking place on Sunday, April 30, 2017 at 7:30 pm in the Winspear Opera House as part of The Dallas Opera’s annual Springs Gala, will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by TDO’s internationally acclaimed Music Director, Emmanuel Villaume. 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.”
Dallas Opera Guild Co-President Jana Irwin explained that “The Dallas Opera Guild views this annual competition as the capstone of our philanthropic and supportive endeavors. The need to support the future of opera is so profound, particularly as it relates to young and somewhat unknown singers. As singers are selected, their professional stature automatically increases due to press and media exposure. However, the competition itself provides additional benefits for these singers, as well as the local opera community. It is truly a win-win situation for all concerned.”
Dallas Opera Guild 2017 Vocal Competition Chairs Bob and Patsy Brooks write: “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition gives singers pursuing a professional opera career the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete with other singers for financial rewards. Best of all is the chance to perform before a panel of distinguished judges celebrated throughout the opera world.”

Lexus Red Parking is available for just $5 at both the Semi-Finals Round, from 11:00 AM until 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 29th as well as the Finals Round of the competition the following evening, Sunday, April 30th at 7:30 p.m. in the Winspear Opera House.

The list of judges for the 2017 Vocal Competition reads like an opera management “Who’s Who”:

Judges for the 2017 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair
Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts
The Juilliard School

Keith Cerny
The Kern Wildenthal General Director and CEO of The Dallas Opera

Emmanuel Villaume
The Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director, The Dallas Opera

Andreas Melinat
Director of Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Pal Moe
Casting Director, Bavarian State Opera;
Casting Consultant, Glyndebourne Festival and Opéra de Lille

Joshua Winograde
Senior Director, Artistic Planning, Los Angeles Opera

Diane Zola
Director of Artistic Administration, Houston Grand Opera

However, the judging isn’t left entirely to the professionals; “amateur” music lovers will have the opportunity to express their views, too. Audience participation is part of the fun at each year’s Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition. For the eighteenth consecutive year, attendees will be given the chance to vote on their personal favorites to receive the “People’s Choice Award.”
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Honoring Dr. Susan Fleming
This year’s vocal competition honors former Dallas Opera Guild President and current Board Member, Dr. Susan Fleming, renowned for her philanthropy and leadership as well as her continuing work with children with communication disorders.
As a bachelor’s and master’s student in speech pathology and audiology at SMU, she thrived in the classroom. Her career path included working at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, directing the preschool at the Greenhill School and maintaining her own private practice. Over the years, Dr. Fleming honed her skills by providing evaluations of children, designing curriculum and working in admissions.
She joined the Shelton Evaluation Center (a division of the Shelton School) in 1993; serving as director until 2009 when she became director emeritus of the center.
Dr. Fleming dedicates her time away from work to numerous professional and volunteer organizations. She is co-chair of the Dream Team of the Rotary Club of Dallas, a program that provides mentors, encouragement and scholarships to local high school students who might otherwise be unable to attend college. Dr. Fleming recently became a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) in Dallas, appointed by judges to work for a year with specific children removed from their home environments by CPS. This UT Dallas Distinguished Alumni Award winner has held numerous positions with the Dallas Opera Guild Board.
“I am touched by my selection,” writes Susan Fleming, “as this places me in the company of the dynamic guild leaders I have admired; those who have contributed so much to The Dallas Opera Guild’s effectiveness in promoting and sustaining the annual Vocal Competition.
“Each person who contributes to this competition,” she adds, “should feel proud to be helping promote young singers as they strive for success in this especially beautiful art form.”
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SPECIAL THANKS
TO THE AT&T PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AND STAFF
FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE
2017 DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

EVENTS, GUESTS AND ARTISTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
VISIT WWW.DALLASOPERA.ORG

2016-2017 SEASON SPONSOR
The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family

~~~~
FOR HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPHS
Contact Suzanne Calvin, Director of Media and PR at suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org
Or Celeste Hart, Communications Manager at celeste.hart@dallasopera.org
~~~~
The Dallas Opera Family Performances are generously supported by
Texas Instruments 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 2016-2017 DALLAS OPERA SEASON

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise indicated. Single Tickets range from $19 to $275. Full Subscriptions (five opera productions) begin at $95; Flex Subscriptions (three-performances of your choice) begin at $75. Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Services Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.

THE DALLAS OPERA 2016-2017 SPRING SEASON INFORMATION

The Dallas Opera celebrates its Sixtieth 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. The Joy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain, at most performances excluding FIRST NIGHT of the season.

MADAME BUTTERFLY by Giacomo Puccini
March 10, 12(m), 15, 18, 24, & 26(m), 2017
The must see, heart-wrenching Italian opera!
Libretto by Giuseppe Giacosa & Luigi Illica
Time: 1904
Place: Nagasaki, Japan
Conductor: Donato Renzetti
Stage Director: John Copley
Set Designer: Michael Yeargan
Costume Designer: Anita Yavich
Lighting Designer: Duane Schuler
Wig & Make-up Designer: Stephanie Williams
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Hui He* (Cio-Cio-San), Gianluca Terranova* (B.F. Pinkerton), Manuela Custer (Suzuki), Lucas Meachem* (Sharpless), David Cangelosi (Goro), Reginald Smith, Jr.* (The Bonze), Will Hughes (Prince Yamadori), Mark McCrory (Imperial Commissioner), Samuel P.J. Lopez (Registrar), Angela Turner Wilson (Kate Pinkerton), Sorrow (TBD)
A classic, period production (new to Dallas) from the San Francisco Opera!

THE TURN OF THE SCREW by Benjamin Britten
March 17, 19(m), 22 & 25, 2017
A dark and gripping tale!
Libretto by Myfanwy Piper
Time: 1950s
Place: Bly, an English country house
Conductor: Nicole Paiement
Original Production: Jonathan Kent
Stage Director: Francesca Gilpin*
Set Designer: Paul Brown
Costume Designer: Paul Brown
Original Lighting Designer: Mark Henderson
Lighting Design Recreated by: David Manion
Wig and Make-up Designer: Stephanie Williams
Starring: William Burden (Prologue/Peter Quint), Emma Bell* (Governess), Oliver Nathanielsz* (Miles), Ashley Emerson* (Flora), Dolora Zajick* (Mrs. Grose), Alexandra LoBianco* (Miss Jessel)
An acclaimed production from Glyndebourne!

NORMA by Vincenzo Bellini
April 21, 23(m), 26, 29, May 7(m), 2017
A thrilling and suspenseful masterpiece!
Libretto by Felice Romani
Time: 50 B.C.
Place: Roman-occupied Gaul
Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume
Stage Director: Nic Muni
Set Designer: John Conklin
Costume Designer: John Conklin
Lighting Designer: Thomas Hase
Wig & Make-up Designer: Stephanie Williams
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Elza van den Heever (Norma), Marina Costa Jackson* (Adalgisa), Yonghoon Lee* (Pollione), Christian Van Horn (Oroveso), Mithra Mastropierro* (Clotilde), Charles Karanja (Flavio)
An atmospheric production from Cincinnati Opera!

* Dallas Opera Debut
** American Debut
______________________________________________________________________________________
The Dallas Opera is supported, in part, by funds from: Texas Instruments Foundation, TACA, 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. A special thanks to the Elsa von Seggern Foundation for its continuing support.

###

Winners Announced at the 28th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition

AND THE WINNERS ARE…

Talented Young Singers Awarded

$18,500 in Cash Prizes

At the 28th Annual

“Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition”

~~~~

Mezzo-Soprano Virginie Verrez

Takes Top Prize and $10,000 Cash!

~~~~

Second Place ($5,000) Goes to Tenor Kang Wang

~~~~

Third Place ($2,500) Awarded to Baritone Sol Jin

~~~~

The “People’s Choice Award” (An Additional $1,000)

Goes to Kang Wang

~~~~

Honorees John and Linda Gage Recognized for their Dedication and Support of The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild

DALLAS, APRIL 30, 2016 – After two days of intense competition by some of the most talented young singers in the country, the winners of the 28^th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition were announced late this evening from the stage of the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center:

The $10,00 First Prize, presented by Dallas Opera Guild 2016 Co-Presidents Jana and Mac Irwin in memory of Bessylee Penland, went to French mezzo-soprano Virginie Verrez
The $5,000 Second Place Prize, presented by 2015 and 2016 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition Chair Ketty Fitzgerald, went to Australian-Chinese tenor Kang Wang
The Third Place Prize of $2,500 was presented by Patsy and Bob Brooks, the Chairs-Elect for the 2017 Vocal Competition, to Korean baritone Sol Jin
The $1,000 “People’s Choice Award,” presented by Katherine and Michael Phillips (underwriters of the popular award) to tenor Kang Wang

A total of 336 applicants from 39 states applied to compete in this year’s competition, from which 20 semi-finalists were chosen. These singers competed yesterday, Friday, April 29 for the coveted position of finalist. That group consisted of Polish bass Daniel Miroslaw, soprano Alexandra Loutsion and bass Adam Lau, in addition to Mr. Jin, Mr. Wang, and Ms. Verrez.

_KA31442 (640x427) — L-R: Virginie Verrez, Alexandra Loutsion, Sol Jin, Kang Wang, Adam Lau, Daniel Miroslaw (Photo by: Karen Almond)

“What stood out to me from the beginning of this competition,” explained Kern Wildenthal Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny (a member of the judges panel), “was the extraordinarily high level of candidates we attracted this year, and the phenomenal singing and acting talent each of these young men and women brought to the Winspear Stage. These are polished performers with great futures in their chosen field.”

The six finalists performed earlier this evening in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center with The Dallas Opera Orchestra under the baton of acclaimed Dallas Opera Music Director Emmanuel Villaume.

“As Co-Presidents of the Dallas Opera Guild, Jana and I count it such a privilege to participate in this nationally significant competition and are ecstatic for today’s winners,” said Dallas Opera Guild Co-President Mac Irwin. “We congratulate all of those who took part in this highly competitive event. The talent exhibited this weekend was truly remarkable. Our hope is that the prize money, accolades and awards will greatly assist these young, dedicated singers as they continue to strive for successful careers as performers.”

Third Place winner Sol Jin was recently selected by Opera News as one of the magazine’s “25 Rising Stars.” He made his opera debut two years ago with Long Island Opera Company, singing the role of Germont in their production of La traviata. He has a degree from Yonsei University and earned his Master’s from The Manhattan School of Music. He is a 2016 winner of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and will join Houston Grand Opera as a Studio Artist next season.

In the Finals Round, Mr. Jin performed “Avant de quitter ces lieux” from Gounod’s Faust, followed by “Sacra la scelta” from Verdi’s Luisa Miller.

Second Place winner (and winner of the 2016 “People’s Choice Award”) Kang Wang is in his first year of the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program. Previously, he was a member of the opera studio at Theater Basel in Switzerland and performed at the International Vocal Arts Institute in Virginia; the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, England; and the Queensland Conservatorium at Griffith University in Australia where he earned a Master of Music Studies in Opera.

In tonight’s Finals Round, Mr. Wang charmed the audience with renditions of “Fra poco a me ricovero” from Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor and “Che gelida manina” from Puccini’s La bohème.

First Place winner Virginie Verrez, a member of the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, made her Metropolitan Opera stage debut as the Madrigalist in a new production of Manon Lescaut and will return to the Met as Stéphano in a new production of Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette under the baton of Maestro Emmanuel Villaume. Last season, Ms. Verrez portrayed Clytemnestre in the Met/Juilliard production of Gluck’s Iphigenie en Aulide, as well as Cherubino in Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro; she was also a 2015 prize winner in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. In 2014, Virginie Verrez sang Lola in Cavalleria rusticana with Avignon Opera and Mercédès in Bizet’s Carmen for Wolf Trap Opera.

During yesterday’s Semi-Finals, accompanied by pianist Adam Nielsen, Ms. Verrez performed “Deh, per questo istante solo” from Mozart’s La clemenza di Tito and “Dieux puissants…Jupiter lance la foudre” (a selection repeated during tonight’s Finals Round with The Dallas Opera Orchestra) from Gluck’s Iphigénie en Aulide. She also thrilled the Winspear Opera House audience this evening with her rendition of Handel’s “Stà nell’Ircana pietrosa tana” from Alcina.

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THE 2016 FINALISTS FOR THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

Sol Jin, baritone, 29, winner, Licia Albanese, Gerda Lissner, Merola, HGO Studio

Adam Lau, bass, age 31, winner of George London Competition, Merola Opera Program

Alexandra Loutsion, soprano, age 32, AZ Opera, Wolf Trap, Central City, Pittsburgh Opera

Daniel Miroslaw, bass, age 29, Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School

Virginie Verrez, mezzo-soprano, 26, winner, Met Opera Nat. Council Auditions

Kang Wang, tenor, age 27, Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Program

The event also featured special guest, Show Boat’s Alyson Cambridge (Julie La Verne) as Mistress of Ceremonies. Later, she dazzled patrons at the Post-Competition Celebration by performing selections from her recording Until Now, a new release of jazz and crossover hits.

Judges for the 2016 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair
Executive Director for the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera and Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

Keith Cerny
Kern Wildenthal General Director and CEO of The Dallas Opera

Emmanuel Villaume
Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director, The Dallas Opera

Ian Derrer
Artistic Administrator, The Dallas Opera

Alain Lanceron
President, Warner Classics

Aidan Lang
General Director, Seattle Opera

David Lomeli
Assistant Artistic Administrator and Special Projects, The Dallas Opera

Lenore Rosenberg
Associate Artistic Administrator, The Metropolitan Opera

Diane Zola
Director of Artistic Administration, Houston Grand Opera

The “People’s Choice” award was determined by the audience, a category now in its seventeenth consecutive year that allows for participation by attendees who vote for their favorite singer.

CONTRIBUTORS TO THE 2016 COMPETITION INCLUDE:

KATHERINE AND MICHAEL PHILLIPS

ENIKA AND RICHARD SCHULZE

KEITH AND JENNIFER CERNY

PATTI AND JOHN CODY

KETTY FITZGERALD

AND MRS. R.V. REGE

ROBERT AND MARTHA ALLDAY

BILL AND ELAINE BLAYLOCK

PATRICIA C. AND ROBERT J. BROOKS

SUSAN G. FLEMING, Ph.D.

SUSAN AND MARK GEYER

ROBERT S. HENDLER AND MS. KATHLEEN MULDOON

JOLIE AND BART HUMPHREY

JANA AND MAC IRWIN

ELIZABETH AND JEFF ISROFF

KYLE F. KERR

MARIGNY LANIER AND ROBERT MARIS

UNDERWRITERS OF THE 2016 COMPETITION INCLUDE:

AT&T PERFORMING ARTS CENTER & STAFF

SHARON BIRD STUPP

MCALISTER’S DELI

TOM MCGURREN PHOTOGRAPHY

KATHERINE & MICHAEL PHILLIPS

~~~~

For additional information about the 28^th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition or any upcoming Dallas Opera Guild programs and special events, please contact The Dallas Opera Guild at 214-443-1040.

For interviews or high-resolution, digital photographs suitable for print

Please contact Suzanne Calvin, Director of Media and Public Relations

214.443.1014 or suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org

Or Celeste Hart, Communications Manager

214-443-1071 or celeste.hart@dallasopera.org

Ticket Information for the 2015-2016 Dallas Opera Season

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise described. Single Tickets range from $19 to $275. Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Services Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.

Last Call for Applicants – Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Contact: Suzanne Calvin 214.443.1014 Or Celeste Hart 214.443.1071
suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org celeste.hart@dallasopera.org

Deadline for Entries This Saturday!
THE 2015 DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION
Now, Bigger than Texas!
~~~~
Thousands in cash prizes; plus, a chance to
perform with the Dallas Opera Orchestra
~~~~
BLUE-RIBBON JUDGES PANEL NAMED
– CHAIRED BY DR. BRIAN ZEGER
~~~~
The clock is ticking! – Enter today at YAPTracker.com

DALLAS, TX, NOVEMBER 12, 2014 – The November 15th deadline is rapidly approaching, as the Dallas Opera Guild prepares for the most exciting vocal competition in its history! For the very first time, the 27th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition is accepting applicants from all fifty states and U.S. territories, aged 21 to 32. Applications must be submitted online at YAPTracker.com by 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2014. The entry fee is $35.
Besides significant cash prizes and the extraordinary opportunity to perform before an influential world-class panel of judges, chaired by Dr. Brian Zeger, a major innovation at this year’s Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition (April 18-19, 2015) is the introduction of an orchestral accompaniment for the Finals Round. Competing artists will have the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the Dallas Opera Orchestra led by internationally renowned Music Director Emmanuel Villaume, recently praised by The New York Times for his conducting of the prestigious 2014 Richard Tucker Music Foundation Gala. Richard Sasanow of Broadway World observed: “the evening was filled with many pleasures, under the baton of Maestro Emmanuel Villaume.” The maestro of choice for a host of renowned opera artists like Anna Netrebko, this is an aspiring opera singer’s chance to work, one-on-one, with one of the most sought-after conductors of our time.
The judges for the upcoming 2015 competition reads like an American Opera “Who’s Who.”

Judges for the 2015 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair
Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts and Executive Director for the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera

Keith Cerny
General Director and CEO of The Dallas Opera

Ian Derrer
Artistic Administrator, The Dallas Opera

Gregory Henkel
Director of Artistic and Music Planning, San Francisco Opera

Andreas Melinat
Director of Artistic Administration, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Emmanuel Villaume
Music Director, The Dallas Opera

Joshua Winograde
Senior Director of Artistic Planning, Los Angeles Opera

Dallas Opera Guild President Susan Fleming explained that “The Guild has long been proud of the annual Vocal Competition, and our members who work countless hours behind the scenes to bring the competition to life. We are pleased to be working together with General Director & CEO Keith Cerny, Maestro Emmanuel Villaume, and Brian Zeger to build on our past success and to increase the national prominence of this competition.”

Dallas Opera Guild 2015 Vocal Competition Chair Ketty Fitzgerald added, “Building on the foundation of all those who came before us, we have a unique opportunity to restructure this competition to enable it to do even more to advance the careers of the best young singers in opera. That is our ultimate goal, in taking this event to the next level.”

Semifinalists will be notified on January 15, 2015. Additional details regarding the changes to the competition may be found at www.dallasopera.org/vocal. Mark your calendars now!
~~~~
Single tickets for the remaining mainstage productions of the Dallas Opera’s “Heights of Passion” Season—including the world premiere production of Joby Talbot and Gene Scheer’s EVEREST—are on sale now, starting at just $19, through the Dallas Opera Ticket Services Office at 214.443.1000 or online at www.dallasopera.org. Student Rush best-available tickets can be purchased at the lobby box office for as little as $25 (one per valid Student I.D.) ninety minutes prior to each performance.

~~~~

EVENTS, GUESTS AND ARTISTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT “NOVEMBER AT THE DALLAS OPERA”
IS CONVENIENTLY AVAILABLE ONLINE, 24/7
VISIT WWW.DALLASOPERA.ORG AND CHECK THE CALENDAR LISTINGS

For high-resolution, digital photographs suitable for print
To arrange an interview
Or for additional information
Please contact Suzanne Calvin, Director of Media and Public Relations
214.443.1014 or suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org
~~~~
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS, 2014-2015 SEASON SPONSOR
FOR THE DALLAS OPERA’S “HEIGHTS OF PASSION” SEASON

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA
IS CONVENIENTLY AVAILABLE ONLINE, 24/7
VISIT WWW.DALLASOPERA.ORG AND CHECK THE CALENDAR LISTINGS

Ticket Information for the 2014-2015 Dallas Opera Season

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise described. Single Tickets range from $19 to $275 and Flex Subscriptions are on sale starting at $75. Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Services Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.

THE DALLAS OPERA 2014-2015 SEASON INFORMATION
The Dallas Opera celebrates its Fifty-Eighth 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. The Joy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain, at most performances excluding FIRST NIGHT of the season.

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
October 24 (The Linda and Mitch Hart Season Opening Night Performance), Oct. 26(m), 29, November 1, 7 and 9(m), 2014
In a single crazy, romantic day, doors will be locked and unlocked, disguised donned, kisses exchanged and innermost hearts revealed—to some of the most memorable music Mozart ever composed.
An opera in four acts first performed in Vienna on May 1, 1786
Text by Lorenzo Da Ponte after the 1784 play La folle journée, ou Le mariage de Figaro by Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais
Time: The late 18th century
Place: Aguasfrescas near Seville, Spain, the Almaviva’s country house
Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume
Stage Director: Kevin Moriarty
Production Design: John Bury*
Lighting Design: Mark McCullough
Wig & make-up Design: David Zimmerman
Choreography: Joel Ferrell*
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Mirco Palazzi (Figaro) , Beate Ritter** (Susanna), Joshua Hopkins (Count Almaviva), Nicole Car** (Countess Almaviva), Emily Fons (Cherubino), Diana Montague* (Marcellina), Kevin Langan (Doctor Bartolo), Doug Jones (Don Basilio), Angela Mannino (Barbarina), Adam Lau* (Antonio) and Jon Kolbet (Don Curzio).
Production Owned by Lyric Opera of Chicago

SALOME by Richard Strauss
October 30, November 2(m), 5, 8, 2014
Once in a great while, the term “over the top” doesn’t seem nearly high enough.
An opera in one act first performed in Dresden, Germany on December 9, 1905
Hedwig Lachmann’s German translation of Oscar Wilde’s French language play
Time: During the time of Jesus Christ
Place: King Herod’s palace on the Sea of Galilee
Conductor: Evan Rogister*
Stage Director: Francesca Zambello
Original Production: Francesca Zambello
Scenic Design: Peter J. Davison*
Costume Design: Anita Yavich
Lighting Design: Mark McCullough
Wig & make-up Design: David Zimmerman
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Choreography: Yael Levitin*
Starring: Deborah Voigt* (Salome), Robert Brubaker (Herod), Greer Grimsley* (Jokanaan), Susan Bickley* (Herodias), Scott Quinn (Narraboth), Heather Johnson* (Herodias’Page), Bradley Garvin (First Nazarene), Grigory Soloviov* (First Soldier), Jason Grant (Second Soldier), Joseph Hu (First Jew), Jay Gardner (Second Jew), John Robert Lindsey (Third Jew), Steven Haal (Fourth Jew), Patrick Guetti* (Fifth Jew), Tyler Simpson* (Second Nazarene), NaGuanda Nobles (A Slave) and Matthew Stump* (A Cappadocian).
Production Owned by Washington National Opera

A RARE DALLAS OPERA DOUBLE BILL:

LA WALLY by Alfredo Catalani
January 30, February 1(m), 4 and 7, 2015
The Climactic Final Act!
First performed in Milan, Italy on January 20, 1892
Text by Luigi Illica after Wilhelmine von Hillern’s story, Die Geyer-Wally
Time: Around the year 1800
Place: The Austrian Alps
Conductor: Anthony Barrese
Stage Director: Candace Evans
Scenic Design: Robert Brill
Costume Design: David C. Woolard
Lighting Design: Christopher Akerlind
Wig & make-up Design: David Zimmerman
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Latonia Moore (Wally), Carl Tanner* (Giuseppe Hagenbach) and Jennifer Chung (Walter)
A Brand-New Dallas Opera Production!

With EVEREST by Joby Talbot
January 30, February 1(m), 4 and 7, 2015
A Dallas Opera World Premiere!
Text by Gene Scheer
Time: Modern Day
Place: In the Death Zone on Mount Everest
Conductor: Nicole Paiement
Stage Director: Leonard Foglia
Scenic Design: Robert Brill
Costume Design: David C. Woolard
Video Design: Elaine J. McCarthy
Lighting Design: Christopher Akerlind
Wig & make-up Design: David Zimmerman
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Andrew Bidlack (Rob Hall), Sasha Cooke (Jan Arnold), Kevin Burdette* (Beck Weathers) and Craig Verm* (Doug Hansen).

LA BOHÈME by Giacomo Puccini
March 13, 15(m), 18, 21, 27 and 29(m), 2015
A passionate and timeless masterpiece in a beloved period production
An opera in four acts first performed in Turin, Italy on February 1, 1896
Text by Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica after Henry Murger’s novel Scènes de la vie de bohème
Time: mid-19th century
Place: The Latin Quarter of Paris, France
Conductor: Riccardo Frizza*
Stage Director: Peter Kazaras
Scenic Design: Jean-Pierre Ponnelle
Costume Design: Peter J. Hall
Lighting Design: Thomas C. Hase
Wig & make-up Design: David Zimmerman
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Children’s Chorus Master: Melinda Cotton
Starring: Ana Maria Martinez (Mimi), Bryan Hymel (Rodolfo), Davinia Rodriguez* (Musetta), Jonathan Beyer (Marcello), Alexander Vinogradov* (Colline), Stephen LaBrie (Schaunard) and Stefan Szkafarowsky (Benoit).
One of the Dallas Opera’s Most Popular!

IOLANTA by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
April 10, 12(m), 15 and 18, 2015
A rarely performed Tchaikovsky gem, set in Medieval Provence!
First performed in St. Petersburg, Russia on December 18, 1892
Text by Modest Tchaikovsky based on the Danish play King Rene’s Daughter by Henrik Hertz
Time: The 15th century
Place: Provence, a mountainous region in Southern France
Conductor: Emmanuel Villaume
Stage Director: Christian Räth
Scenic Design: Christian Räth
Costume Design: Susan Cox
Video Design: Elaine J. McCarthy
Lighting Design: Thomas C. Hase
Wig & make-up Design: David Zimmerman
Chorus Master: Alexander Rom
Starring: Ekaterina Scherbachenko* (Iolanta), Sergey Skorokhodov* (Count Vaudémont), Joanna Mongiardo* (Brigitta), Lauren McNeese (Laura), Tamara Mumford* (Marta), Andrei Bondarenko** (Robert, Duke of Burgandy), Mikhail Kolelishvili (Renè, King of Provence), Andrew Bidlack (Alméric), Vladislav Sulimsky** (Ibn-Hakia) and Jordan Bisch (Bertrand).
Another New Dallas Opera Production

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