Secondary Programs (Grades 8 to 12)

Opera Experience 2026–2027 Season

🎓 Program Overview Opera Experience is a year-long mentorship program offering 10 high school students an in-depth look at the inner workings of a major Canadian opera company. Ideal for students passionate about music, stagecraft, design, marketing, or storytelling, this program provides rare access to the creation of professional opera from the inside out. Students will:

  • Attend key rehearsals for all three mainstage operas

  • Meet artists, directors, and technicians behind the scenes

  • Tour backstage and production spaces at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre

  • Learn how opera is produced—from budgeting to staging

  • Gain work experience hours

  • Optionally create a multimedia report (e.g., podcast, video, or digital essay) ➤ Students who complete the report will receive a letter of reference and access to a network of contacts at Vancouver Opera and among peers

đź“Ł Application Info No prior opera experience is required. Open to grades 9-12, across the Lower Mainland. Students will submit:

  • A short letter of interest

  • A creative sample (written, visual, or audio)

Applications are due October 4 at 9PM.

Application Form
STUDENT DRESS REHEARSALS

See a fully staged rehearsal with your students for under $20. A dress rehearsal is the last run before opening night—full orchestra, full cast, full set—and it's one of the best ways for young people to experience opera for the first time. Important information for the 2026–2027 season:

  • Booking opens on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

  • Groups are capped at 30 tickets per school.

  • Tickets are $19 each.

  • Elementary groups need one adult chaperone for every 10 students, to a maximum of one adult for every 5 students.

  • High school groups are limited to 3 adults/teachers per group, so that seats go to students.

  • Final payment is due three weeks before the performance date, by credit card in full or by cheque mailed to

    1945 McLean Drive, Vancouver—please allow time for it to reach us before the deadline.

For more information about Student Dress Rehearsals or to reserve tickets, please contact Tracey Flattes at tflattes@vancouveropera.ca.

OPERA IN CLASS

The journey to the opera stage is different for every singer, connect with us to request a special visit and vocal health from one of our world-class singers and teaching artists. For inquiries or to receive updates on Opera in Class, please contact Ashley Daniel Foot at afoot@vancouveropera.ca.