ANNOUNCING THE NEXT SEASON OF EMERGING ARTISTS!
We are thrilled to welcome this season’s Emerging Artists to the Edmonton Opera family. Each of them brings unique talent, dedication, and passion to the stage and behind the scenes, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish throughout the 2025/26 Season. From their work on beloved classics to bold new productions, these artists are an essential part of the stories we share. Join us in celebrating their journey as they take the next step in their artistic careers.
Leila Kirves
Soprano
Leila Kirves will cover the title role in Tosca at the NAC and sing the role in Whitehorse and in Saskatoon. She will also cover “Brünnhilde” in Siegfried.
Zachary Rioux
Tenor
Zachary Rioux will cover “Cavaradossi” in Tosca at the NAC and sing the role in Whitehorse and in Saskatoon.
Elias Theocharidis
Tenor
Elias Theocharidis will sing “Spoletta” in Tosca at the NAC, in Whitehorse, and in Saskatoon. He will also cover “Mime” in Siegfried.
Nicholas Borg
Baritone
Nicholas Borg will cover “Scarpia” in Tosca at the NAC and sing the role in Whitehorse and in Saskatoon.
Danlie Rae Acebuque
Baritone
Danlie Rae Acebuque will sing “Angelotti/Jailer” in Tosca at the NAC, in Whitehorse, and in Saskatoon. He will also cover the roles of “Eugene” & “Oz” in Indians on Vacation.
George Theodorakopoulis
Baritone
George Theodorakopoulos will sing “Sacristan” in Tosca at the NAC, in Whitehorse, and in Saskatoon. He will also cover “Chip” in Indians on Vacation.
Layne Spencer
Bass
Layne Spencer will sing “Sciarrone” in Tosca at the NAC, in Whitehorse, and in Saskatoon.
Rebecca Klassen
Piano
Rebecca Klassen will serve as the Assistant Repetiteur for the Tosca Tour.
Vivien Illion
Director
Vivien Illion will serve as the Assistant Director for the Tosca Tour.
Claire Thorton
Stage Manager
Claire Thorton will serve as the Assistant Stage Manager for the Tosca Tour.
New This Season: A fresh chapter for emerging artists
The Emerging Artist Program is evolving - and this season it’s bigger, bolder, and more collaborative than ever.
Rather than one placement, artists were invited to apply for three unique sessions throughout the year, each offering hands-on experience with professional productions across the country. By partnering with national and regional arts organizations, we’re building a stronger foundation for the next generation of Canadian opera artists.
FALL SESSION: Tosca (Puccini, Illica, & Giacosa)
A cross-country collaboration with Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra, the Yukon Arts Centre, and Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra brings Tosca to life — and offers a rich professional development opportunity for singers and creatives alike.
WINTER SESSION: Indians on Vacation (Cusson & Vavrek)
In this exciting world premiere, Emerging Artists will understudy roles and gain experience from the ground up in a brand-new Canadian opera.
SPRING SESSION: Siegfried (Wagner, Jonathan Dove Arrangement)
Emerging Artists will take part in understudy roles for Edmonton Opera’s intimate production of Wagner’s Siegfried — a rare chance to explore one of opera’s most iconic works in a fresh new setting.
