Dare | A pioneering collaboration between Opera North and University of Leeds
Photograghy Brian Slater

Work-based learning

Engaging with the opera production process
Students get the invaluable experience of engaging with Opera North's artistic and technical specialists and observing every stage of the production rehearsal process.

  • Planning is underway to create an elective module that engages students with experienced arts practitioners and live performance, comprising taught sessions and Opera North-led master classes.
  • In autumn 2011, a programme of seminars and discussions, including theatre tours and observation of rehearsals, was led by Opera North specialists for students studying Managing in Arts Organisations. Themes included repertoire planning, financial management, communications and the value of boards and volunteers.
  • Autumn 2009 saw Kate Budgen, assistant director on Opera North's Turn of the Screw, deliver a seminar to over 400 students on the challenges facing Britten in adapting the Henry James' novella for the stage.
  • In 2009/10, students and tutors across multiple disciplines experienced first-hand the production process for Opera North's new production of Gilbert and Sullivan's Ruddigore. Q&A's with stage and Company management, director Jo Davies and performing artists provided the context for observation of all stages of the rehearsal process, from model showing and sitzprobe to final dress rehearsal.
  • In autumn 2008 and winter 2009, students and tutors engaged with the director, choreographer, and stage and Company management for Jonathan Dove's new opera Skin Deep, in addition to observing the full production rehearsal process.
  • In winter and spring 2008 students observed the full creative process for Opera North's season of three new Shakespeare operas, from the director's model-showing and set design to rehearsal and first night, plus Q&A sessions with director Tim Albery and principal singer Yvonne Howard. Seminars brought together academics, students, directors, designers, musicians, technicians and opera company management to explore how an opera is produced and presented.
  • In spring 2008 Opera North's Head of Music and a repetiteur coached postgraduate voice students on opera and musical theatre repertoire for the practical element of their project work.
  • In 2008 Opera North's planning director, repetiteur, marketing manager and company manager discussed their role and cultural politics of opera today, with music students.
  • In autumn 2007 students participated in a study programme and observed rehearsals for a new production of Reinhard Keiser's The Fortunes of King Croesus.
  • In autumn 2007 students from all BA degrees in the School of PCI worked with Martin Duncan, director of new Jonathan Dove commission Pinocchio.