2024/25 Season
Gilbert & Sullivan: The Podcast
Join the talented teen singers of the Opera Company of Middlebury’s Youth Opera program in their fall opera-scenes production: a spoof on a Gilbert & Sullivan podcast! Scenes from Iolanthe, Patience, and The Mikado have been woven into an inventive script by guest Stage Director Erik Kroncke. Music Director Mary Jane Austin leads from the piano. No advance tickets - admission by donation at the door.
Performances are November 8, November 9, November 10.
Dido & Aeneas Project: Once again, YOC Founder Sarah Cullins will work within a school to study, rehearse, and perform Purcell’s iconic opera. After successful residencies at Burlington and Colchester high schools in the last two years, this winter’s project will be a combined production of Middlebury, Vergennes, and Mount Abraham high schools, culminating in performances on December 13 and December 14.
Spring Opera Scenes Workshop: We are thrilled to be collaborating with the Vermont Youth Orchestra for our spring opera scenes workshop! Scenes from Mozart operas will be woven into an original production that will be accompanied by chamber ensembles from the VYO. Final performances in April will include a school tour. “170 TEENS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES” Youth Opera in The Addison Independent 10/31/24
Have you seen YOC in The Addison Independent yet? Read here!
“170 TEENS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES” Youth Opera in The Addison Independent 10/31/24
TRAIN. PERFORM. CONNECT.
We are thrilled to announce that, as of September 2023, we have officially added a robust opera education program for teens to our annual activities!
As we continue to navigate this exciting transition, please find more information on our Youth Opera program’s website. (Our websites will be fully integrated soon!)
The Youth Opera Company of OCM is made possible through a merger between the Opera Company of Middlebury and the organization formerly known as the Youth Opera Company of Vermont.
The Youth Opera Company of OCM uses opera as a tool to inspire our participants to reach for excellence in a myriad of skills, to build their confidence as singers and people, and to give back to their communities in a meaningful way. To this end, we offer unique training and performance opportunities in after-school programs, summer programs and school residencies, and partner with local arts organizations to offer community service opportunities in senior residences and community centers. All of our programs offer scholarship assistance and a commitment to inclusion.
While opera might seem like an old-fashioned art form that wouldn’t appeal to today’s teens, our programs have successfully proven to participants and audiences alike that opera can be just as relevant and exciting as any other form of storytelling. With simple productions that are fresh and modern, we keep the focus on our singers’ amazing talent and the essential aspects of the story, and have converted many opera skeptics into opera lovers.
Studying opera also requires high-level training in multiple skill sets and the same emphasis on teamwork, discipline and self-confidence as any varsity sports team. Our participants may or may not decide to pursue opera as a career path, but they will certainly be lifelong lovers and supporters of the arts with valuable and transferable skills and a sense of social responsibility that will play an important role in their futures.
