Vancouver Opera

Evening at a Glance

Think South of Spain, whimsical, romantic, and a sea of roses! Vancouver Opera was long known for hosting one of our city's pre-eminent black tie galas. This year, we return from a brief hiatus, and will welcome over 300 people to the stage of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Set amidst the set of our production of Carmen, our signature event is back! We are so excited to welcome you to this vibrant experience - an evening full of performance, exquisite Spanish cuisine, and lasting memories! Date: Friday, May 3, 2024 Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre Dress Code: Black tie optional Gala Program 6:00pm Cava Cocktail Hour 7:00pm Dinner Tribute + Mainstage Season Highlights Live Auction Paddle Raise Entertainment

Support Vancouver Opera Education & Community Outreach

Vancouver Opera is known across Canada and beyond as a leader in sharing the power of music and theatre. Our black tie gala-on-the-stage is one of the main ways we fund these exceptional programs and keep accessible opera experiences  in our schools and communities. Thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors and donors, we are able to reach thousands of children, youth, and adults in communities across the Lower Mainland through: 

• VANCOUVER OPERA IN SCHOOLS: Our landmark program that tours a fully staged opera to upwards of 100 schools in a year (reaching over 1.6 million kids and families in its 50-year history). 

• VOICES FREE CONCERT SERIES: Our innovative series of totally free performances and events meant to give back to Vancouverites and beyond. 

• OPERA IN THE PARK: Our day-long event and family-friendly concert in Burnaby's Deer Lake park, attended by tens of thousands each summer. 

• YULANDA M. FARIS YOUNG ARTISTS PROGRAM: Our industry-leading incubator for six emerging opera artists per year, fostering the next generation of opera creators in an inclusive environment.

• OPERA EXPERIENCE: Our behind-the-scenes training program for high school students interested in a career in theatre technology, production, or administration. 

• PROJECT OPERA: Our collaboration with local teachers to guide elementary classrooms to create their own operas, based on their curriculum. 

• INSIDE VANCOUVER OPERA: Our beloved podcast that peeks behind the curtain. ...and so many more! Your support for our gala helps us keep these programs running strong, and increases our ability to reach even more classrooms and communities throughout BC.

Gala Sponsorship Opportunities

To learn more about our Gala sponsorship opportunities, please view our sponsorship levels below. If you would like more information, please contact Bella Dingman, Senior Manager, Major Gifts & Events by email: bdingman@vancouveropera.ca.

Donate to the Gala

The proceeds raised at our Habanera Gala will support Vancouver Opera’s education and outreach programs, such as Vancouver Opera in Schools, the Yulanda M. Faris Young Artists Program, Project Opera, and numerous others. Together with our opera community, we can continue to deliver impactful and inspirational educational initiatives while expanding our reach to even more children across the Lower Mainland. Vancouver Opera is immensely grateful and appreciative for the generous support from donors like you, and welcome you to be part of this signature event by providing a donation through the link below.

HABANERA! Committee

We are so grateful to have a passionate group of volunteers who have generously donated their time and expertise to ensure that Vancouver Opera's gala is a memorable experience for all and meets its fundraising goal. We couldn't do it with these incredible people - thank you for your endless support of the Opera! Gala Co-Chairs: Isabelle Spothelfer and Bruce Wright Susan van der Flier Pierre Lebel Shaun Dolman Carol Tsuyuki Gagan Grewal Elise Rees Nancy Wu

Contact

If you would like more information, get involved, or donate to our Habanera Gala, please contact Bella Dingman, Senior Manager, Major Gifts & Events by email: bdingman@vancouveropera.ca