The Opera North Youth Company is the junior performing wing of Opera North and provides vocal and drama training for young people aged 8-21.
The company – made up of Children’s Chorus (8-11), Young Voices (12-15) and Youth Chorus (16-21) – meet weekly during school term time to part in an exciting year-long programme of performances and projects. It provides training in singing and stagecraft, delivered by a team of vocal and drama specialists.
Rehearsals take place at the Howard Opera Centre in Leeds, putting young people right at the heart of a busy opera company. Members are given unparalleled opportunities to attend rehearsals and performances, as well as gain an understanding of the full range of skills that make up an opera behind the scenes.
Alongside their own performances, the Youth Company perform regularly with the Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North and are invited to audition for roles in main stage productions throughout the year.
Many members of the Youth Company use their training as a springboard to continue their studies (and careers) in the arts, but membership also provides many transferable skills and friendships to last a lifetime.
”I honestly think I would be a totally different and lesser person if I hadn’t auditioned ten years ago. The opportunities and experiences that you have given me are among the very best in my life and I will be eternally grateful for that.” – Former Youth Company member
The Opera North Youth Company is generously supported by The late John Barchard and Dr. Claire Barchard, the Derek Hill Foundation, The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, The Liz and Terry Bramall Foundation, The Whitaker Charitable Trust, The Keith Howard Foundation and a grant from the Leverhulme Trust for Arts Scholarships.
