Our Program
Opera in the Ozarks, at Inspiration Point Fine Arts Colony (IPFAC), often referred to as “the Point,” is an intensive eight-week summer training and performance program for young singers, selected from competitive national auditions.
- Apprentice Artists study, rehearse and perform three operas in fully staged productions with orchestra. Many have the opportunity to perform multiple roles. Because roles are usually only double cast, artists are assured of growing through mulltiple performances. Apprentice Artists sing in the chorus, as needed, and may participate in the opera scenes program and outreach opera. Some singers may be invited to participate in pre-season publicity programs and early rehearsals beginning mid May.
- Studio Artists The Studio Artists Program is designed for those attending a summer opera training program for the first time and will be appropriately cast in the scenes program and in some secondary roles in the main stage productions. There is no specific age requirement for participation although we recommend no one under the age of 18 apply. In addition to minor roles, chorus and Studio Artists prepare and perform an outreach opera, performed before hundreds of children throughout Northwestern Arkansas. Studio Artists often have the opportunity to cover major roles.
This program has a venerable continuous history, training young artists since 1950. No other training institute for young people offers the scope and depth of this total immersion into the process of preparing and performing opera. Alumni of this program now sing in the major opera houses of the world; many others teach at prestigious colleges and universities.
Artists are trained, conducted, coached and encouraged by a supportive, professional staff. Included is all training, coaching, workshops, and nurturing required to present opera in full production—scenery, lights, costumes, wigs—accompanied by an orchestra. The 2011 season includes 4 weeks of rehearsal, 3 mainstage operas in 24 performances, numerous performances of the outreach opera and an evening of opera scenes–all presented over a 30-day period.
Once the productions have opened guest artists come to The Point to offer masterclasses, workshops and classes important to an opera singer’s development. Planned for 2012: vocal masterclasses, movement, stage combat, career development, diction.
The cost of the 8-week program is $4250 for the Apprentice Artist program, $3000 for the Studio Artist program. The tuition also covers accommodations and meals. Transportation to Opera in the Ozarks is the responsibility of participants. If you choose to fly, Fayetteville, Arkansas (Airport code is XNA) is the nearest airport. OIO will make arrangements to pick you up and transport you to The Point.
