STAFFORD OPERA TROUPE
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A summer experience designed for burgeoning young singers.

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Stafford Opera Troupe launched its inaugural Summer Opera Program in 2016. This fun and educational training program was designed for high school and young collegiate singers, but is a collaboration of performing artists of diverse ages and experience levels. Mentored by the program faculty, participants develop their voice and stage skills, learn about performance practice and etiquette, and sing stunning music from the opera, operetta, and musical theatre repertoire. The program culminates in a public performance of an opera production or opera scenes. Between the production and masterclasses, every student enrolled in the program has the opportunity to perform as a soloist in addition to ensemble and chorus work. Repertoire selections are tailored to the unique abilities of each student.

This is a day program only; while out-of-town participants are welcome, housing is not provided. Rehearsals, masterclasses, and educational sessions generally take place in the afternoon and evening, with private lessons scheduled earlier in the day.

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The 2025 Summer Opera Program

The application is currently open for the 2025 season! Please email us with any questions at [email protected].

In addition to rehearsals culminating in two public performances, program singers will take part in the following:
  • Educational workshop sessions on topics such as effective practice, audition preparation, role study, entrepreneurship, stage etiquette, and overcoming performance anxiety.
  • Masterclasses in which each singer will perform a solo selection under the instruction of program faculty.
  • Weekly private coachings with program voice faculty.
  • Opportunities to work alongside emerging artists.
  • Potential additional performance opportunities in the community.

Program Dates: JUNE 23 - JULY 12, 2025

Rehearsals will take place on the University of Mary Washington campus

Application Deadlines:
Collegiate Deadline – NOVEMBER 18, 2024  (priority casting)
High School Deadline – June 1, 2025

Questions? Contact us.

Repertoire: Gilbert & Sullivan's 
​Pirates of Penzance

Program Cost: NO APPLICATION FEE AND TUITION-FREE!
​(*confirmation fee information below)

The Summer Opera Program is tuition-free, and it is free to apply. There is a non-refundable $200 confirmation fee to reserve your place upon acceptance into the program.

Application Materials

Collegiate applicants, follow this link to apply for the 2025 program. Please prepare the following materials:
  • Two video OR audio recordings of classical vocal or musical theatre selections.
  • A performance resume (don't worry -- we accept singers of all experience levels!)
  • Head shot and/or bio.
  • A Participation Agreement is included in the application submission.
  • More experienced singers (2+ years of college vocal studies) may be admitted as Collegiate Artists. Selection as a Collegiate Artist may guide casting decisions, and  these may be given additional performance opportunities.​
High School applicants, please use this link to apply.
Please prepare the following materials:
  • A video OR audio recordings of classical vocal or musical theatre selections.
  • A performance resume (don't worry -- we accept singers of all experience levels!)
  • Head shot and/or bio.
  • A Participation Agreement and Parental Consent Form are included in the application submission
Meet the Faculty

Eligibility Requirements

Minimum Age: 15 years

Stafford Opera Troupe serves singers of many experience levels through the Summer Opera Program. To meet the needs of all our singers as the program grows in size and placement becomes increasingly competitive, we offer the opportunity for Collegiate Artists. While all participants will have access to the same learning and performance opportunities, these options guide casting decisions and allow each of our singers to grow at a pace appropriate to their experience and skill. This integrative approach provides maximal learning opportunities for all and fosters an environment of mentorship and collaboration.

Collegiate Artists

The Collegiate Artist track is for developing singers with a minimum of 2 years of collegiate vocal study, such as those pursuing (or planning to pursue) undergraduate studies in voice. Collegiate Artists are often cast in supporting roles, as covers (understudies) of leading roles, and/or in the ensemble of Summer Opera Program productions; occasionally, Collegiate Artists may also be cast in leading roles. In addition to the production, all singers perform as soloists in public masterclasses throughout the program.

Professional Fellows

Professional Fellows are carefully selected burgeoning professionals who show potential for successful careers in opera or classical vocal performance. They are often cast in major roles in the Summer Opera Program production and may be selected for additional performance opportunities. Professional Fellows meet the following criteria:
  • Hold one or more degrees in music (or equivalent experience);
  • Have performed at least five lyric theatre roles (or equivalent experience);
  • Display an advanced level of artistry and professionalism in audition recordings.
Selection is competitive, and decisions are made at the discretion of the program faculty.  When reviewing your application, the panel will determine which option is best suited to you. You will be notified of your designation as a Collegiate Artist or Professional Fellow upon acceptance.

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  • Home
  • About
    • Meet the Team
    • Previous Seasons
    • 2024 Presentation
  • Summer Program
    • Faculty
    • 2025 Applications >
      • Collegiate Application
      • High School Application
  • Shop
    • Opera Apparel
    • Opera Gear
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Donate
    • External Links >
      • Bree Nichols
      • Stafford County, VA
  • SOT in a nutshell