18 students, 4 days, 1 opera.
Behind the scenes at Vancouver Opera's 2023 youth summer opera camp.
Opera is storytelling at its most grand and is a perfect vehicle for the imaginations of children. Vancouver Opera’s one-of-a-kind Opera Camp uses music, drama, and art to empower students with self-confidence and build skills through cooperation and collaboration with their peers.
Children need to believe in their creative ideas and develop the courage to express them in front of others. Students communicate characters and emotions through music and drama which builds trust and self-confidence. These skills are required not just for the stage – but for life!
The 2023 Opera Camp ran from July 4th to 7th, where 18 students collaborated to produce and perform a 20 minute original opera.
Photos by Michael Cox and Yazmín Vázquez
Opera Camp is led by two Vancouver Opera Teaching Artists supported by a Camp Assistant and production staff from Vancouver Opera. In this week-long program, students are immersed in creating all elements of opera from creative writing, composing, singing, acting, directing, costuming, and even painting sets. It’s a chance for kids to try on different creative ‘hats’ in a fun and positive space.
Photos by Michael Cox and Yazmín Vázquez
Reflections from our staff…
Eve-Lyn de la Haye, Senior Teaching Artist at Vancouver Opera:
We had 18 students in Opera Camp this year, between the ages of 8 - 15. This diverse age range allows returning older students to become Teen Camp Assistants and help support the new students. All ages worked beautifully together, and I witnessed them problem-solving in respectful and inclusive ways. Our primary focus is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for these kids. No matter what their musical background or experience, there is something for everyone at Opera Camp!
In the 8 years that I have been leading this program, I have seen how much children of all ages love to dive into emotionally challenging material. This year we had the opportunity to explore the social justice issues of the American garment industry in early the 1900’s. Leading to the devastating fire of the Triangle Waist Factory in 1911, we took a look at the real-life story of immigrant-turned-activist, Clara Lemlich, an Eastern European girl who immigrated to New York City with her family in search of a better life. What she found was the devastating working conditions that thousands of young girls, some as young as 12 years old, were forced to work in. As a starting point we drew our inspiration from the book, Brave Girl: the Shirtwaist Makers’ Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel and Melissa Sweet.
Through the exploration of Clara’s story, the kids were clearly impacted by the injustices she faced and showed true empathy in their portrayal of these real life characters. The knowledge the students gained from learning about the history of the garment workers’ strike of 1909 led to some interesting discussions about current working conditions and the impact of today’s fast fashion.
The week culminated in a 20-minute performance of their original opera which included an overture, 4 dramatic scenes, 2 ‘arias’ sung as a chorus, and finished with a choral piece on the same theme of bravery. At the close of this experience, the students were left with a tangible sense of pride and ownership of their work, and the joy they felt performing for their families and friends was evident to every audience member. After the performance they were already talking about coming back next year!
As a teacher and mother, this work is important to me because I see first-hand the impact it makes when a nurturing space is provided for children to create and to grow. They cherish the opportunity to expand their musical horizons, their social circles, and take on new artistic responsibilities. It is truly inspiring to witness these transformations and proves the necessity of providing these children’s programs at Vancouver Opera, fostering the next generation of opera-lovers!
Holly Collis Handford, Teaching Artist:
Opera Camp at Vancouver Opera is truly a unique creative performance experience! As the camp’s composer, I have the privilege of hearing melody ideas from every student when it comes time to create our original songs and arranging those ideas into two full length arias. It is such rewarding work seeing young students hear their own song ideas fleshed out and sung by the entire group!
Making up songs and telling stories is an integral part of a young musician’s life and I am honoured to work in a space that supports and strengthens those instincts. Over the course of the week, opera as an art form becomes accessible, achievable, and a source of joy as the students learn its key components while putting together their own original opera.
Yazmín Vázquez, Program Assistant:
As an Opera Camp Program Assistant, I had the incredible opportunity to work closely with talented young singers and immerse myself in the world of opera production once again. This experience was truly enriching for both myself, and my son, who was part of the camp for the first time this year. It provided me with valuable insights and growth both personally and professionally.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a program assistant was connecting with the families and witnessing the growth and development of the camp participants, many of whom have never met each other before. It was wonderful to see them progress over the course of the camp, gain confidence, unleash their creativity, and most of all, raise their voices! Witnessing their dedication and perseverance was truly inspiring.
Working alongside experienced opera/acting professionals like Eve and Holly was an invaluable experience for me as well. I had the opportunity to observe their talent and passion for music up close and work their magic in just a few days. The collaborative nature of opera was evident throughout the camp. From small group projects to dress rehearsals, the participants learned the importance of teamwork and cooperation. It was heartwarming to see them support and encourage one another, creating a positive and nurturing environment for artistic growth.
Overall, my experience as a Program Assistant at Opera Camp this summer was transformative. It deepened my appreciation for opera as an art form and allowed me to contribute to the growth of aspiring young artists. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a fulfilling and inspiring program.
2023 Students:
Jake Apricity Hetherington
Olivia Begg
Aubrey Brandt
Phoebe Brandt
Carlos Gao
Clara Griesdale
Fanya Gross
Felix Klassen
Arlo Lim
Marlowe MacLennan
Esmee MacLennan
Claire O’Donnell
Sofia Scaglione
Imigin Schultz
Oliver Vazquez
Michael Werner
Natalie Werner
Aletheia Yuen
The 2023 Summer Opera Camp may be over, but be sure to check out VancouverOpera.ca for future events and for more of Vancouver Opera’s educational programs.