PODCAST | Vancouver Opera Offstage
Monthly Wednesdays

Vancouver Opera Offstage is an audio podcast with host Les Dala, VO’s chorus director and associate conductor. Join Les once a month for this podcast as he chats with opera experts, artists, Vancouver Opera staff and others to explore the world of opera on and off the stage. This podcast offers an insider’s glimpse into the artistry, experiences, and perspectives of the talent involved in taking breathtaking opera productions from the page to the stage.

Latest Episode: July 7, 2021.

The next episode will release Wednesday, August 4, 2021, and will be our season finale. We’ll be speaking with Vancouver Recital Society’s Founder and Artistic Director, Leila Getz, C.M., O.B.C, D.F.A. Don’t miss it!

In this very important episode, Les turns the stage around to talk with an illustrious audience member. Our guest is Canadian track and field icon, granddaughter of Canada’s first Black Olympian, sister of Canadian track legend Harry Jerome, educator and teacher, social justice and environmental advocate, patron of the Arts, and long-time opera fan Valerie Jerome. Valerie talks about her experiences with racism growing up on the North Shore in the 50s and 60s, the similarities between athletes and musicians, and the power of having inspirational heros of colour in opera and in the arts. Valerie and Les also discuss the important work still to be done as people of Canada in changing preconceptions and challenging prejudices about people of colour. This episode was recorded June 15, 2021.

Listen Now:

Extra Features & Content:

• Interview on Sportsnet.ca with Valerie Jerome
• Valerie Jerome on UBC Faculty of Education
• Interview in The Province with Valerie Jerome on naming of Harry Jerome Oval
• Interview in Richmond News

Les’ Pick of the Month: Recordings by Leontyne Price