From car warm-ups to garden sunsets, chorus member Shawn Wakley shares what it’s really like to perform under the open sky at Opera Al Fresco.
Meet Shawn
“My name is Shawn Wakley and I am a tenor with the EO Chorus. I have enjoyed two glorious seasons with the Opera and am very excited to embark on my third for the 2025/2026 season.”
A dedicated vocalist, full-time professional, and self-professed opera enthusiast, Shawn brings a unique perspective to the Edmonton Opera Chorus — one that’s grounded in joy, discipline, and a deep appreciation for both tradition and transformation.
On Falling in Love with Opera
“I have always been keenly interested in opera — the dramatic waves of the orchestra, the power of the singers, and the grandeur of the theatre experience as a whole has always been exciting.”
Opera offers something that’s hard to describe but easy to feel: a sense of awe, of artistry at its most immediate. For Shawn, that’s what keeps him coming back.
“While we all have a concept of what opera is, new productions, new imaginings, and new works keep me excited about this art form.”
In other words — it’s not just about what opera was. It’s about what it can still be.
Stepping Onto the Stage
Shawn Wakely performing as a chorus member in Carmen during the 2023/24 season. He’s pictured seated, second from the left. Photo by Nanc Price.
Shawn’s first production with Edmonton Opera was Carmen during the 2023/2024 season — a show known for its intensity, passion, and unforgettable music.
“The rehearsal process was thrilling, and it felt so nice to be able to reconnect with performance after COVID.”
But it was opening night that took his breath away.
“The most magical part for me was stepping out on the Jubilee stage. It was such an awe-inspiring experience to be part of such an amazing production and to share the stage with truly incredible artists.”
Opera, Under the Sky
Every season, Opera Al Fresco offers something unexpected — not just for audiences, but for the artists too. Held at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden, it’s an open-air concert where nature becomes part of the performance.
“Simply put — you get to sing outside!”
Of course, the environment comes with surprises. Birds, bugs, wind, and even the occasional downpour all add their own flair.
“It does require more flexibility, as you cannot always predict what is going to happen in your environment. You just have to be ready to adjust to whatever happens in the name of making beautiful music and creating a wonderful experience for the audience.”
A Performance for the Senses
Opera al Fresco, 2024. Photo by Steven Hope.
“Singing in the garden is such a treat because all of your senses become stimulated — fresh air, sunshine, the sight and sounds of birds.”
Unlike the opera house, where bright stage lights obscure the crowd, the garden setting offers something rare for a performer: connection.
“Usually on stage, you cannot see the audience. Being able to see everyone enjoying the performance is a joy for the performers.”
And that joy is mutual. Audiences hum along. Smiles spread. The music becomes something shared — not just presented.
“It feels less like a performance and more like a community coming together to enjoy something truly beautiful.”
On Weather and Warmups
Performing outside isn’t always idyllic. Ask any Opera Al Fresco performer what they really think about the elements, and one answer usually comes up first:
“The rain! You do not get to control the weather… but rain is the worst!”
Luckily, singers perform under tents — a bit of reprieve from the elements. But the audience? “I have never seen anyone complain,” Shawn says with admiration.
As for show day? It’s a hustle.
“Performance day is usually pretty hectic! As I work full time, I head out to the Botanical Garden directly from work and start my vocal warm-ups in the car!”
Despite the rush, there’s beauty in the routine.
“We generally arrive a few hours early to ensure time for final dress rehearsal, sound checks, and just time to connect and relax before we sing. It’s so great to share a few good laughs and a walk around the gardens with fellow choristers.”
And once the music starts?
“The performance always feels like it goes too fast. Before we know it, the singing is done — but the smiles continue on!”
Why It Matters
Opera al Fresco, 2024. Photo by Steven Hope.
Opera Al Fresco isn’t just a concert — it’s an invitation. To the curious. To the uninitiated. To those who’ve never seen opera at all.
“If you have never been to Opera Al Fresco, then it is time for you to try something new!”
And what sets it apart?
“You may think that you have enjoyed an evening at the opera before, but it is like nothing else when you are outside, picnicking and feeling the sunshine and breathing the fresh air!”
Whether you’re an opera regular or just dipping your toes in for the first time, this is a performance built on connection — to the music, to the earth, and to each other.
Join Us
Opera Al Fresco returns August 27, 2025, at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden.
Enjoy a summer night filled with breathtaking music, fresh air, and garden magic.
Get your tickets here
One night only — don’t miss your chance to experience opera, outdoors.