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NST/OBR SUMMER OPERA INTENSIVE

Following a highly-successful summer opera intensive program featuring The Marriage of Figaro, No Strings Theatre and Opera by Request will be partnering once again with director Gregory Finney for a summer program and production of Bizet's Carmen, sung in French, with the original spoken dialogue rendered in English. Our opera intensive is growing in its reach and attracts emerging artists from around the globe. Our mentors are international industry professional performers and pedagogues, some of which appear in the cast as well.

DIRECTOR'S NOTE

The stories of strong women have always fascinated me. Being raised by a cadre of strong women on the East Coast, I have a deep appreciation for the many layers that have caused this strength to be forged. 

One layer that overwhelmingly dominates in my brain is that of women living in particularly dangerous times. At the time of the original setting of Carmen, there’s danger all around. Not online among the soldiers on the opposing side, but even within their own ranks. I find that there’s a really strong parallel between this time period and that of the late 1920s and early 1930s. Life was hopping! The Great War is truly in the rear-view and the spectre of World War II has not quite fully started looming, but in the metropolitan areas, it was still a bit of a jungle. 

I’ve always found the Flapper/Mod/Gangster era to be fascinating. We still have a lot of the class-based, antiquated social models in play, the juxtaposition of this against the rise of feminist movements riding on the momentum of the suffrage movement and stepping in to fill manufacturing roles usually held by men while they went off to war gave these women a backbone forged of the kind of stuff that is stronger than anything we can fathom. 

I think the Smugglers have parallels in every era - as do their clashes with authority. I think the damages military service can cause to people’s psychological well-being is universal. I think the longing for promises to be fulfilled touches everyone. 

But most of all, I think Carmen is one of these women. 

Gregory Finney

NO STRINGS THEATRE

In collaboration with industry professionals, No Strings Theatre aims to develop, empower and inspire the next generation of performing artists. Assuring an equitable space, we are committed to fostering anti-racist, non-biased theatrical practices while reducing socio-economic barriers. Our practices facilitate an inclusive space for community engagement in the arts.

For more information, visit www.nostringstheatre.com

OPERA BY REQUEST

At Opera by Request we perform all manner of operatic repertoire in concert format, not such an unusual concept. The twist is that the repertoire is decided by the participants, not the company directorate. For singers, we’re an opportunity to learn and perform a role for the first time in a comfortable and supportive environment. For audiences, we present affordable concert performances by singers in the roles that most inspire them.

To learn more about Opera by Request, visit operabyrequest.ca.

CONTENT WARNINGS

CONTENT WARNING:

This production of Carmen contains depictions of smoking, alcohol, guns, and violence against women.

Cast

Creative Team

Synopsis

SYNOPSIS

ACT I

Micaëla, a young peasant girl, is searching for her beloved, the corporal Don José. During the changing of the guard, a group of women take a break from their work at a cigarette factory. One of them, Carmen, has many admirers but she tries to attract the attention of Don José who remains indifferent to her, despite the flower she has tossed at him. He hides the flower in his uniform. Micaëla returns with a letter from Don José’s mother, who begs him to marry Micaëla. A short time later, the beautiful Carmen is arrested following a disagreement with another factory worker, and Don José is assigned to arrest her. Falling under her spell, the corporal allows her to escape, landing him in jail. 

ACT II

Carmen and her friends have gathered at Lillas Pastia's tavern, when a passing parade celebrates the victorious bullfighter, Escamillo. Zuniga, Don José’s lieutenant, tells Carmen that Don José has been released from jail. The soldiers and Escamillo leave as the smugglers Dancaïro and Remendado convince Carmen and her friends, Frasquita and Mercédès, to stay behind. They need to deliver their smuggled loot and want the three women to join them. Carmen says she can’t go because she’s in love. Don José’s voice is heard outside, and the smugglers leave Carmen and Don José alone. He tells her how much he loves her. A trumpet signals that the soldiers must report back to the barracks. Carmen demands that he give up his commission and follow her into the mountains with the smugglers. Meanwhile, Zuniga has caught up with Don José and tries to convince the corporal to come home with him. Don José, torn between duty and desire, defies his superior. In the end, he has no choice but to accept his actions and flee into the mountains with Carmen and the band of smugglers. 

INTERMISSION

ACT III

As the smugglers move through the mountains, Carmen becomes less and less tolerant of her lover’s possessive and controlling behaviour. Frasquita and Mercédès read their fortunes in cards, but when Carmen tries, she only sees her death and Don José’s. The women help the smugglers distract the customs guards by flirting with them. Don José stays behind to watch the camp. Micaëla has found her way to the smugglers’ site in search of Don José. Escamillo, who has also followed them in search of Carmen, arrives. Seeing him, José shoots his gun at Escamillo, barely missing. Don José challenges him to a duel, but the fight is cut short when the smugglers return. After Escamillo leaves, Remendado finds Micaëla hiding. She tells Don José that his mother is dying. Micaëla and Don José leave together.

ACT IV

On the day of the big fight, Carmen and Escamillo profess their love to each other. The crowd cheers Escamillo as he enters, and he and Carmen express their love for each other. As the throng enters the arena, Frasquita and Mercédès warn Carmen that Don José is somewhere in the crowd. Carmen says that she is not afraid and stays behind to confront him. Disheveled and crazed, he comes out of the shadows and begs Carmen to start a new life with him. Carmen says everything is over between them. Carmen tries to go into the arena and Don José blocks her way. Carmen says she’s in love with Escamillo. Enraged, Don José stabs Carmen and she falls to the ground dead. She dies as the crowd cheers the toreador in the corrida.

Musical Numbers

MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT I

1. Prelude (orchestra)
2. Sur la place chacun passe (Chorus of soldiers, Moralès, Micaëla)
3. Avec la garde montante (Chorus of urchins, Zuniga)
4. La cloche a sonné (Chorus of citizens, soldiers, cigarette girls)
5. Habanera: L'amour est un oiseau rebelle (Carmen, chorus as above)
6. Carmen! Sur tes pas nous pressons! (Chorus of citizens and cigarette girls)
7. Parle-moi de ma mère (José, Micaëla)
8. Que se passe-t-il là-bas? Au secours! Au secours! (Chorus of cigarette girls, soldiers, Zuniga)
9. Tra-la-la ... Coupe-moi, brûle-moi (Carmen, Zuniga, cigarette girls, José)
10. Seguidilla: Près des remparts de Séville (Carmen, José)
11. Finale: Voici l'ordre; partez (Zuniga, Carmen)

Entr'acte (orchestra)

ACT II

12. Les tringles des sistres tintaient (Carmen, Mercédès, Frasquita)
13. Vivat! Vivat le torero! (Chorus of Escamillo's followers, Zuniga, Mercédès, Frasquita, Moralès, Lillas Pastia)
14. Toreador Song: Votre toast, je peux vous le rendre (Escamillo, Frasquita, Mercédès, Carmen, Moralès, Zuniga, Lillas Pastia, chorus)
15. Quintette: Nous avons en tête une affaire! (Le Dancaire, le Remendado, Carmen, Frasquita, Mercédès)
16. Halte-là! Qui va là? (José, Carmen, Mercédès, Frasquita, le Dancaire, le Remendado)
17. Je vais danser en votre honneur ... La fleur que tu m'avais jetée ... Non! Tu ne m'aimes pas! (Carmen, José)
18. Finale: Holà! Carmen! Holà! (Zuniga, José, Carmen, le Dancaire, le Remendado, Mercédès, Frasquita, chorus)

Entr'acte (orchestra)

ACT III

19. Écoute, compagnon, écoute (Chorus of smugglers, Mercédès, Frasquita, Carmen, José, le Dancaire, le Remendado)
20. Mêlons! – Coupons! (Frasquita, Mercédès, Carmen)
21. Quant au douanier, c'est notre affaire (Frasquita, Mercédès, Carmen, le Dancaire, le Remendado, chorus)
22. C'est les contrabandiers le refuge ordinaire (Micaëla)
23. Je suis Escamillo, torero de Grenade! (Escamillo, José)
24. Finale: Holà holà José! (Carmen, Escamillo, Micaëla, Frasquita, Mercédès, le Dancaire, José, le Remendado, chorus)

Entr'acte (orchestra)

ACT IV

25. A deux cuartos! (Chorus of citizens, Zuniga, Moralès, Frasquita, Mercédès)
26. Les voici, voici la quadrille ... Si tu m'aimes, Carmen (Chorus of citizens, children, Escamillo, Carmen, Frasquita, Mercédès)
27. Finale: C'est toi! – C'est moi! (Carmen, José, chorus)

SPECIAL THANKS

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Beauthy Ashley, Glen Backert, Michael Bygrave, Madge Bygrave, Maurice Bygrave, Don Dos Santos, Louise Davies, Janina Dziedziola, Cathy Moran, Ben MacDonald, Bronwen Nicholson, Thomas Sadowski, Constance Scrafield, Eulalie Walling- Sampson, Karen Sampson, Conroy Williams, and many other behind the scenes volunteers

Willowdale Presbyterian Church and Monika Schneider, space rental coordinator

Our Silent Auction Donors

Meet the Company

ERICA TIMMERMAN

Carmen

Mezzo-soprano Erica Timmerman won a 2023 Encouragement Award from the Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition in the Iowa District. She is excited to be singing the title role in Carmen with No Strings Theatre and Opera by Request (Toronto, Canada), where she has recently sung Cherubino in Le Nozze di Figaro. Other recent appearances include Madame de la Haltière in Cendrillon with Chicago Summer Opera and Ruth in Pirates of Penzance with East Carolina University Opera Theater. She originated the role of the Confidant in The Dreamer by composer Mark Taggart. She received her Master of Music with concentrations in Vocal Performance and Vocal Pedagogy from East Carolina University and her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Loras College.

ERNESTO RAMIREZ

Don José

Mexican tenor Ernesto Ramırez is garnering rave reviews for his distinctive Italianate sound, “wonderfully fluid line and brilliant high notes,” combined with his “suave, nuanced lyricism.” Ernesto debuted as Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly with Mexico’s Opera de Leon, Rodolfo in La bohème with Pacific Northwest Opera, and sang his first Don Jose with Opera Kelowna’s Carmen, and in concert with Kitchener­Waterloo Symphony. In 2022, Ernesto stars as Don Jose in concert performances of Carmen with Orchestre Classique de Montreal, and debuts as Ralph Rackstraw with Vancouver Opera in their updated production of HMS Pinafore, conducted by Rosemary Thomson. Ernesto has performed to great acclaim for audiences in France, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and the United States. In 2014 while engaged as a cover for the title role of Roberto Devereux with the Canadian Opera Company, he was thrilled to share the stage in performance with soprano Sondra Radvanovsky. Operatic roles for Ernesto include Raoul in the Canadian Premiere of Meyerbeer's Les Huguenots, Arturo in I Puritani, and Alfredo in La Traviata with Sarasota Opera. Prior to the pandemic, Ernesto covered the Duke in Edmonton Opera’s Rigoletto, and was the tenor soloist in Handel’s Messiah with Hamilton’s Bach Elgar Choir. Ernesto debuted in Against the Grain Theatre’s digital project of Bound, a reaction to those displaced, dehumanized and mistreated by recent geopolitical conflict, with original text by director Joel Ivany. Ernesto sang Stefano in John Estacio’s acclaimed opera Filumena with Calgary Opera, and in 2021 reprised the role with Brott To You in their digital production of selected scenes. His “resplendent tenor” has been heard in performances of Verdi’s Requiem with Brott Music Festival, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Niagara Symphony, and Kingston Symphony. Opera companies in Zurich, Quebec, Montreal, Tel­Aviv and Mexico City have welcomed him as a guest artist in their Opera Galas. He also performed at The 150th Anniversary of Puccini, a gala hosted by Simonetta Puccini.

JOHN HOLLAND

Escamillo

Czech-Canadian Bass-Baritone John Holland has embarked on a diverse career of opera, oratorio, and art song. In 2020, John won a JUNO award as a member of the Ottawa Bach Choir. His Operatic credits include Figaro in Le Nozze di Figaro at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Leporello and Masetto in Don Giovanni at the Estates Theatre in Prague, Vodník in Rusalka in the Czech Republic, Taddeo in L’Italiana in Algeri at Casa Loma, Purkrabi in Dvořák’s Jakobin, Caspar in Der Freischütz, Achilla in Giulio Cesare, Belcore in L’Elisir d’Amore, Henry VIII in Anna Bolena, Baron Ochs in Der Rosenkavalier, and Alberich in Der Ring Des Nibelungen with Toronto’s Opera by Request. He has sung at such locales as the Canadian Opera Company, Mozarteum in Salzburg, Bachfest in Leipzig (2014, 2022), Smetana Hall and the Estates Theatre in Prague, and San Marco in Venice, and has shared the stage with the likes of Placido Domingo, Sherrill Milnes, Rene Pape, and Lorin Maazel. Recent 2023 performances include, Bass Soloist for a CD recording of Bach’s Motets on ATMA Classique, Bartolo in Il Barbiere di Siviglia with Mississauga Symphony, Leporello in Don Giovanni with Toronto City Opera, Papageno in Die Zauberflöte with Opera York, and Escamillo in Carmen with No Strings Theatre. He was a winner of the 2002 CBC Radio Opera Quiz Competition, and a finalist in the London Opera Guild Competition in 2001 and 2003. A respected academic, John is a three-time lecturer for the Canadian Opera Company’s London guild, a regular lecturer at the Royal Conservatory of Music, and a nine-time judge for the JUNO Awards. He is also an alumnus of the University of Windsor and Western University music faculties. Dr. Holland completed his PhD in Musicology at York University in 2018. His scholarly work reaches over many genres, but is focused on the study of Czech Opera, Art Song, and Choral Works. His book, The Lost Tradition of Dvořák's Operas: Myth, Music, and Nationalism, critically analyzes these operas, and views them through the lenses of social, cultural, and political history, and pieces together the answers to why these operas are essentially lost works within the Czech lands, and abroad. In the fall of 2014, he produced the Canadian premiere of Dvořák’s opera Jakobin. He is also the founding director of the Canadian Institute for Czech Music, and continues to be in demand as a performer, choral conductor, and lecturer, as well as being a member of the contract faculty at York University.

MARYAM NOSRATI

Micaëla - August 12, 18, 20

Maryam Nosrati is a soprano singer who has appeared as a soloist in Mozart's Missa Brevis and Schubert's Stabat Mater. She held a prominent role as a core member of the Iran Philharmonic ensemble and the Amir Kabir Cultural Center. Maryam has also performed in several festivals in Toronto, Canada, including the Kiwanis Music Festival, where she won the Gold Award and was the first winner in Grand Opera & Oratorio in 2020. She has also participated in the NATS Ontario Vocal Showcase Festival in 2017, where she won third place. Also she has performed for Opera For All at Trinity-St. Paul's Centre in 2018 and given recitals at the Christian Community Centre."

GRACE QUINSEY

Micaëla - August 11, 13, 19

Soprano Grace Quinsey, born and raised in Windsor, Ontario, has quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with on the opera stage. Praised for her sparkling voice and vibrant stage presence, Grace is also lauded by colleagues and audiences alike for her brilliant characterizations. She has sung with SOLT, No Strings Theatre, Opera York, Opera By Request, Opera In Concert, and many other professional ensembles in Canada. Recent stage credits include Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro with No Strings Theatre, Fiordilidgi in Cosi fan tutte with Opera By Request, and Papagena in Die Zauberflöte with Opera York. Other opera credits include Zerlina in Don Giovanni, Norina in Don Pasquale, Zulma in L’italiana in Algeri, and Helen/Robin in A Northern Lights Dream. She is also a specialist in Gilbert & Sullivan, having sung a variety of lead roles with various societies. In the early music scene, Grace is a member and regular soloist with the prestigious, JUNO-winning, Ottawa Bach Choir. Upcoming 2023-24 performances include Micaela in Carmen with No Strings Theatre, Terinka in Dvořák’s Jakobín, Mařenka in Smetana The Bartered Bride (both with the Canadian Festival of Czech Opera), and soprano soloist for Haydn’s The Creation. When she finally has time off from the stage, Grace is a servant to her cat, Funya, works as a software developer, and is a video game aficionado.

GABRIELLA BELL-DIVINCENZO

Frasquita - August 11, 18

Soprano Gabriella Bell-Divincenzo is excited to be making her role debut as Frasquita in Carmen with No String Theatre and Opera by Request. She recently received her Bachelor of Music from Wilfrid Laurier University. In her time at Laurier, Gabriella performed in Opera Laurier’s fall excerpts production where she sang the role of Mercedes in excerpts from Bizet’s Carmen and in the chorus for excerpts from Verdi’s La Traviata. She also performed in Opera Laurier’s production of Mark Adamo’s Little Women where she sang one of the four voices [soprano 3] and covered the role of Meg. Other performances include Brahms Eine deutsches Requiem with Amadeus Choir, Resound Choir, and the North York Concert Orchestra, chorus in Bernstein’s Candide with the North York Concert Orchestra and chorus in Verdi’s La Traviata with the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony Orchestra and again with Brott Music Festival. Gabriella also participated in the “Die Schöne Müllerin Project” in 2022 where she worked with Colin Ainsworth and Laura Loewen. Gabriella will be returning to Wilfrid Laurier University in the fall to complete her Diploma in Opera.

BROOKE MITCHELL

Frasquita - August 12, 19

Brooke Mitchell (she/her, they/them) is a queer Soprano and emerging multidisciplinary artist. Born and raised in Kjipuktuk (Halifax, Nova Scotia), she moved to Ontario to attend Sheridan’s music theatre program where she is currently entering her fourth year. Singing is one of their greatest passions- they are trained in opera, contemporary music theatre, and pop vocals. But what is song without story?!? Brooke is in awe that they are able to explore the wondrous practice of ACTING. She has an undying love for all facets of live theatre, which has led her down many creative rabbit holes such as writing, composing, choreographing, devising, stage managing, and all around just making stuff! Brooke is so thrilled to be returning to opera to juggle singing Frasquita and stage managing NST/OBR’s Carmen! Socials: @brookelmitchell on IG / Brooke Mitchell (@brookelmitchell) on YouTube

DENISE WILLIAMS

Frasquita - August 13, 20

Denise Williams concentrates her time on performance education, and has founded No Strings Theatre with a desire to aid the Next Generation performing artists, creators, designers, and production managers to practise their stagecraft. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are paramount to her work as an artist and facilitator. She is currently on the music theatre faculty of Sheridan College (5 years), and operates her Voices of Colour Music singing studio (30 years). Her 30+ year international solo performance career has put her at home on the concert, opera, and theatre stages, working with, to name a few national companies, The Nathaniel Dett Chorale, The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Mirvish Productions, Eastern Front Theatre, Theatre Northwest as well as international appearances. Denise holds a Masters in Community Music and has participated in international performances and symposiums, particularly addressing cross-cultural sharing of music traditions. Her "Walk Together Children" concerts span over 20 years and feature the musical intersection of the African, Jewish, and Muslim diaspora. Currently she is launching a concert program of Euro-classical music fused with Afrocentric beats and rhythms, Melanatté, with composer Andrew Craig (aka Rapsodius). www.denisewilliamssoprano.com

KATHLEEN MILLS

Mercédès - August 11, 12, 13

Kathleen Mills (She/They) is a gender queer, neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, composer, lyricist, bookwright, and performer who lives in Toronto. They are a graduate of Sheridan’s Musical Theatre Performance program and have a focus in Writing for Musical Theatre. They recently had their original musical The Storyteller produced by NoStrings Theatre, and has had another musical Skylark picked up by a Toronto based company: Icarus Theatre. She is primarily trained in musical theatre, but is very excited to be performing her second Opera. They strongly believe that art and theatre should be available to everyone and are excited to be part of the next generation of theatre performers, creators, and educators, working to make it even more accessible, safe, and inspiring!

ALESSIA VITALI

Mercédès - August 18, 19, 20

Italian-Canadian mezzo-soprano Alessia Vitali has been heard in a wide variety of roles including Rosina in Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Ma Moss in Copland’s The Tender Land, Carmen in La Tragédie de Carmen by Bizet, and Cherubino in Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro. In the Canadian premiere of Jonathan Dove’s Mansfield Park, she was the cover for the role of Fanny Price and premiered new works by student composers all while a member of the University of Toronto Opera School. During the summer of 2022, Alessia performed the title role in Handel’s Serse with Chicago Summer Opera and was a participant in the St. Andrew’s Arts Council Opera Workshop in New Brunswick, working with Wendy Nielsen, Jennifer Swan, Tom Diamond, and Peter Tiefenbach. Alessia received a Master of Music in Opera Performance and a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from the University of Toronto and has completed many intensive training programs with Against the Grain National Opera, the Orford Music Academy, COSI, Long Reach Opera, and NYU. Alessia is very excited to be making her role debut as Mercedes in Carmen with No Strings Theatre and Opera by Request.

KYLE SIMPSON

El Dancaïro

Kyle Simpson is a bass/baritone who recently completed his undergraduate degree in music performance from the University of Ottawa. Kyle was first introduced to the stage by participating in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet at the local theatre in Haliburton, Ontario. Since then, he has performed roles in several operatic productions ranging from Polyphemus in Handel's Acis and Galatea to the Secret Police Officer in Menotti's The Consul. He is thrilled to be working with No Strings Theatre and Opera by Request in this production of Carmen as Le Dancaïre.

DAVID WALSH

El Remendado

David Walsh, originally from Toronto, recently finished his Diploma of Opera Performance at the University of Toronto with Honours in 2022. From there David has participated in a wide range of vocal performances. This summer he made his debut with the North York Concert Orchestra as the Governor/Vanderdender in a semi-staged performance of Candide by Leonard Bernstein. In the winter of 2023, David performed with the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra as Count Almaviva in a performance of The Barber of Seville. In fall 2022, David sang with the Canadian Opera Company Chorus in both Bizet’s Carmen and Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman and sang with them again for their spring season performances of Verdi’s Macbeth and Puccini’s Tosca. He made his role debut as Martin in Aaron Copland’s opera The Tender Land in Spring 2022 with U of T Opera. A highlight of 2022 was when he was asked to perform as the Tenor soloist in Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana with Chorus Niagara and Robert Cooper. As well as an avid singer, David is an avid biker. This form of transportation is the way he practices a lot of his repertoire. So, if you ever see a blur of red hair and hear some Rossini or Fauré on the downtown streets of Toronto, you have most likely encountered David Walsh.

HENRY IRWIN

Zuniga

Henry Irwin is a well-known performer of opera and oratorio in Toronto and Southern Ontario. He studied at the Banff Centre, The Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, California, the University of Edmonton, Alberta, Department of Music and The Opera School at the University of Toronto. He studied singing with various baritones including Bernard Turgeon, Canadian, and French baritone Martial Singher. Mr. Irwin has appeared in leading roles with Opera York, Southern Ontario Lyric Opera, Tryptych Productions, Coro Verdi, Opera by Request, Opera Belcanto, The Hart House Choir and The Santa Barbara Symphony, among others. He formerly sang in the choruses of both the Edmonton Opera and the Canadian Opera Companies. Mr. Irwin enjoys the opportunity to combine music with acting and comedy. Since 1992 he has lived in Caledon, Ontario.

MIKE DOBROVETSKY

Moralès - August 11, 12, 13

Mike Dobrovetsky is a long time Toronto native. He graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in Biology and Psychology. While his education is not in the field, he is highly passionate about music. Mike has been training professionally for the past three years and has decided to take his training to the big stage. With previous experience performing in band and piano recitals, Carmen will be Mike's debut in singing. Mike is very excited to play the role of Morales.

IAN CORLETT

Moralès - August 18, 19, 20

Ian Corlett is a long-time Toronto native. A budding opera singer, he is a lifelong musician who initially trained as an instrumentalist before transitioning to focus on voice. He has been a tenor lead in the parish choir of St Peter and St Simon Anglican church for the last twelve years; and is training professionally as a lyric tenor. Ian’s role as Morales in this production of Carmen is his second operatic role with No Strings Theatre, and his third operatic role to date.

HILLARY KRUTCHIK

Chorus

Hillary Krutchick (soprano) has her Masters of music from Cleveland Institute of Music. She has been performing since the age of five in various different musical capacities around the United States and abroad. Mrs. Krutchick has performed with American Music Aboard, and American Institute of Musical Studies (Aims in Graz). As well as, La Musica Lirica and Napa Music Festival. Ms. Krutchick has performed with the Cleveland Opera Theater and The Great Lakes Light Opera in Ohio, including Arcady and Opera by request here in Toronto. In 2016 she played Flora in La Traviata, as well as Mrs. Nolan in Menotti's The Medium and was the featured soloist for the Orchard Park Symphony. She is winner of the 2012 and 2014 CIM Classical Singer Competition in the Cleveland region.

VIVIENNE ERCHOV

Children's Chorus

Vivienne Erchov, a 14-year-old music lover from Vaughan, Ontario, is embarking on an exciting journey into the world of opera. Guided by her dedicated vocal teacher Anush, Vivienne's love for singing has blossomed into a passion for vocal and opera performances. Recently completed levels 2, 4, and 5 and hoping to complete more, Vivienne is working on completing Vocal exams at the Royal Conservatory of Music. Although this is Vivienne's first opera experience, she is very excited and glad to be part of this amazing journey.

GEORGIA FISHER

Children's Chorus

Georgia Fisher is happy to be a part of the childrens choir for No Strings' production of Carmen. They bring to their role all the same sensitivity, intelligence, kindness and good humor that inspires all their musical endeavors. With America's gun violence ranging too close to home, Georgia moved from Buffalo, New York to Toronto last Fall and immediately dove into singing with VIVA Singer's Main Youth Chorus. Through VIVA they enjoyed and look forward again to singing in the childrens choir for the National Ballet of Canada's Nutcracker. Georgia also looks forward to participating in a residency at Western University through VIVA's Chamber Youth Leadership group this coming season. Georgia got their start with music at Buffalo Community Music School and performed with Buffalo Girlchoir. When not immersed in singing and school, Georgia loves to downhill ski, swim, canoe camp, and play with their dogs Lily & Beau.

PETER PASISHNIK

Children's Chorus

Peter is very excited to be a part of Carmen at NST/OBR. He recently worked with Opera by Request on the well-known opera by Mozart, The magic Flute as one of the three spirits. As an incoming 7th grader, when Peter’s not in school, he loves to play piano and hang out with his friends. He would like to thank his family for supporting him and being the greatest encouragement, he could ask for!

PALOMA RAMIREZ

Children's Chorus/Guide

Paloma likes crochet, reading, crafts, cooking and karate!!

ARI SHPARBER

Children's Chorus

RONA SHPARBER

Children's Chorus

ZEV STONE

Children's Chorus

Zev attends Claude Watson School for the Arts in Toronto. This is Zev’s first experience singing with an opera company. He takes dance and musical theatre classes at Randolph Kids Performing Arts, where he has performed in several productions including The Rockin’ Tale of Snow White, Press Start, The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever, and Super Happy Awesome News. This spring he played Martin von Trapp in the Hillcrest Village Community Players production of The Sound of Music. Zev studies voice with Holly Marcello at Toronto Music Alliance, and he does Irish dance at Scoil Rince Fáinne Chladach.

DENISE WILLIAMS

Artistic Director

Denise Williams concentrates her time on performance education, and has founded No Strings Theatre with a desire to aid the Next Generation performing artists, creators, designers, and production managers to practise their stagecraft. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are paramount to her work as an artist and facilitator. She is currently on the music theatre faculty of Sheridan College (5 years), and operates her Voices of Colour Music singing studio (30 years). Her 30+ year international solo performance career has put her at home on the concert, opera, and theatre stages, working with, to name a few national companies, The Nathaniel Dett Chorale, The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Mirvish Productions, Eastern Front Theatre, Theatre Northwest as well as international appearances. Denise holds a Masters in Community Music and has participated in international performances and symposiums, particularly addressing cross-cultural sharing of music traditions. Her "Walk Together Children" concerts span over 20 years and feature the musical intersection of the African, Jewish, and Muslim diaspora. Currently she is launching a concert program of Euro-classical music fused with Afrocentric beats and rhythms, Melanatté, with composer Andrew Craig (aka Rapsodius). www.denisewilliamssoprano.com

GREGORY FINNEY

Director

Delighted to be starting at No Strings Theatre and returning to Opera By Request - after his company debut as Michonnet in ADRIANA LECOUVREUR – as Bartolo/Antonio in LE NOZZE DI FIGARO) Baritone Gregory Finney has been hailed for his versatility and skill after his turn as Escamillo in LA TRAGEDIE DE CARMEN with LooseTEA Music Theatre among others. One of Toronto’s busiest singers, mostly at home in comedic roles, he garnered rave reviews for his turn as Antonio/ Bartolo in Against The Grain theatre’s hit production FIGARO’S WEDDING. He’s been seen as Il Conte (LE NOZZE DI FIGARO); Papageno (DIE ZAUBERFLOTE) and as Figaro (LA MERE COUPABLE). He was seen in the Canadian premieres of JERRY SPRINGER: THE OPERA, LUISA FERNANDA, KATE AND THE DEVIL and KNICKERBOCKER HOLIDAY and the world premieres of KAMOURASKA and Eric Idles NOT THE MESSIAH. (@gregory_finney) (www.gregoryfinney.com)

WILLIAM SHOOKHOFF

Music Director

William Shookhoff is a noted conductor, pianist and vocal coach throughout Canada and abroad. He has served on the music faculties of the Universities of Toronto, Alberta, Wilfrid Laurier, as well as the Banff Centre for the Arts and the Johannesen Summer Institute of Music. He has been on the Music Staff of the Canadian, Netherlands, Edmonton, and Portland (Oregon) Opera Companies. Mr Shookhoff was the Associate Conductor of the inaugural Canadian production of Les Miserables, and of the Canadian Tour and Toronto productions of Phantom of the Opera. He has been a guest Music Director with Neptune Theatre (Halifax), Persephone Theatre (Saskatoon), and Citadel Theatre (Edmonton). Mr. Shookhoff makes frequent appearances in those capacities throughout Western Europe and China, as well as maintaining an active coaching studio in Toronto. He is a regular guest conductor with the Bluebridge Festival and with Opera Kitchener. He has also devoted his efforts to the development and presentation of the Massed Piano or Monster Concert, and has conducted such events at Carnegie Hall, New York; Massey Hall and Nathan Philips Square, Toronto; the White House, Washington, DC; and the Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome. Mr. Shookhoff is Artistic Director Emeritus at Tryptych Productions.

CECILIA NGUYEN TRAN

Associate Music Director

Cecilia NguyenTran is a collaborative pianist from Toronto, ON. She received her Bachelor of Music from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2019 and returned to complete her Opera Diploma in 2023. Cecilia loves working with vocalists (whether in an art song, musical theatre, or opera setting), as well as other instrumentalists (in any capacity where music can be created). In Fall of 2023, she will begin her journey towards completing a master’s degree in collaborative piano at McGill University in Montreal.

BROOKE MITCHELL

Stage Manager

Brooke Mitchell (she/her, they/them) is a queer emerging multidisciplinary artist. Born and raised in Kjipuktuk (Halifax, Nova Scotia), she moved to Ontario to attend Sheridan’s music theatre program where she is currently entering her fourth year. Singing is one of their greatest passions- they are trained in opera, contemporary music theatre, and pop vocals. But what is song without story?!? Brooke is in awe that they are able to explore the wondrous practice of ACTING. She has an undying love for all facets of live theatre, which has led her down many creative rabbit holes such as writing, composing, choreographing, devising, stage managing, and all around just making stuff! Brooke is so thrilled to be returning to opera to juggle singing Frasquita and stage managing NST/OBR’s Carmen! Socials: @brookelmitchell on IG / Brooke Mitchell (@brookelmitchell) on YouTube

ANUSH PASISHNIK

Children's Chorus Master

Anush Pasishnik is a Children’s choir master and coach, graduated her bachelor’s degree in Rachmaninov music college in Kaliningrad Russia. She has been working as choir conductor at St. Mary Armenian Church since 2005, having under her guidance choir that holds 40 singers. In 2019 she created an aCapella group who sings on 4 voices church and folk songs. She worked with Opera by Request, and prepared kids singing 3 spirits part in Mozart’s well know opera Magic Flute. She is working as vocal coach and has very successful students who have been signed to sing with COC. Very dedicated, she is thrilled to share her love of music with kids, bringing children’s part in opera Carmen to live.

KATHLEEN MILLS

Drama Coach - Children's Chorus

JOHN HOLLAND

Artist-Mentor

Czech-Canadian Bass-Baritone John Holland has embarked on a diverse career of opera, oratorio, and art song. In 2020, John won a JUNO award as a member of the Ottawa Bach Choir. His Operatic credits include Figaro in Le Nozze di Figaro at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Leporello and Masetto in Don Giovanni at the Estates Theatre in Prague, Vodník in Rusalka in the Czech Republic, Taddeo in L’Italiana in Algeri at Casa Loma, Purkrabi in Dvořák’s Jakobin, Caspar in Der Freischütz, Achilla in Giulio Cesare, Belcore in L’Elisir d’Amore, Henry VIII in Anna Bolena, Baron Ochs in Der Rosenkavalier, and Alberich in Der Ring Des Nibelungen with Toronto’s Opera by Request. He has sung at such locales as the Canadian Opera Company, Mozarteum in Salzburg, Bachfest in Leipzig (2014, 2022), Smetana Hall and the Estates Theatre in Prague, and San Marco in Venice, and has shared the stage with the likes of Placido Domingo, Sherrill Milnes, Rene Pape, and Lorin Maazel. Recent 2023 performances include, Bass Soloist for a CD recording of Bach’s Motets on ATMA Classique, Bartolo in Il Barbiere di Siviglia with Mississauga Symphony, Leporello in Don Giovanni with Toronto City Opera, Papageno in Die Zauberflöte with Opera York, and Escamillo in Carmen with No Strings Theatre. He was a winner of the 2002 CBC Radio Opera Quiz Competition, and a finalist in the London Opera Guild Competition in 2001 and 2003. A respected academic, John is a three-time lecturer for the Canadian Opera Company’s London guild, a regular lecturer at the Royal Conservatory of Music, and a nine-time judge for the JUNO Awards. He is also an alumnus of the University of Windsor and Western University music faculties. Dr. Holland completed his PhD in Musicology at York University in 2018. His scholarly work reaches over many genres, but is focused on the study of Czech Opera, Art Song, and Choral Works. His book, The Lost Tradition of Dvořák's Operas: Myth, Music, and Nationalism, critically analyzes these operas, and views them through the lenses of social, cultural, and political history, and pieces together the answers to why these operas are essentially lost works within the Czech lands, and abroad. In the fall of 2014, he produced the Canadian premiere of Dvořák’s opera Jakobin. He is also the founding director of the Canadian Institute for Czech Music, and continues to be in demand as a performer, choral conductor, and lecturer, as well as being a member of the contract faculty at York University.

JULIE NESRALLAH

Artist-Mentor

The dazzling Julie Nesrallah performs for leading opera companies, symphonies, festivals and chamber music ensembles across Canada and around the world. Miss Nesrallah sang God Save the Queen for Will and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, for Canada Day festivities on Parliament Hill in a performance that was viewed by millions. She also sang for An Evening for Peace for Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan in Montreal. Miss Nesrallah is the host of Tempo on CBC Music and is also the executive producer and star of Carmen on Tap which performs Georges Bizet’s Carmen as dinner theatre. Miss Nesrallah has been the recipient of several distinguished awards including the Canada Council for the Arts Emerging Artist Award & Mid-Career Grant, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for her cultural contribution to Canada’s performing arts. https://www.julienesrallah.com/

ERNESTO RAMIREZ

Artist-Mentor

Mexican tenor Ernesto Ramırez debuted as Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly with Mexico’s Opera de Leon, Rodolfo in La bohème with Pacific Northwest Opera, and sang his first Don Jose with Opera Kelowna’s Carmen, and in concert with KitchenerWaterloo Symphony. In 2022, Ernesto stars as Don Jose in concert performances of Carmen with Orchestre Classique de Montreal, and debuts as Ralph Rackstraw with Vancouver Opera in their updated production of HMS Pinafore, conducted by Rosemary Thomson. In 2014 while engaged as a cover for the title role of Roberto Devereux with the Canadian Opera Company, he was thrilled to share the stage in performance with soprano Sondra Radvanovsky. Operatic roles for Ernesto include Raoul in the Canadian Premiere of Meyerbeer's Les Huguenots, Arturo in I Puritani, and Alfredo in La Traviata with Sarasota Opera. Ernesto debuted in Against the Grain Theatre’s digital project of Bound, a reaction to those displaced, dehumanized and mistreated by recent geopolitical conflict, with original text by director Joel Ivany. Ernesto sang Stefano in John Estacio’s acclaimed opera Filumena with Calgary Opera, and in 2021 reprised the role with Brott To You in their digital production of selected scenes. His “resplendent tenor” has been heard in performances of Verdi’s Requiem with Brott Music Festival, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Niagara Symphony, and Kingston Symphony. He also performed at The 150th Anniversary of Puccini, a gala hosted by Simonetta Puccini. Ernesto Ramirez is a Canadian Resident and holds U.S. and Mexican Citizenship. https://www.ernestoramirez.ca/

MARCIA WHITEHEAD

Artist-Mentor

Marcia Whitehead sang professionally as a mezzo soprano with Opera companies and Symphonies across Canada for over 15 years. She apprenticed with Montréal Opera's L'Atelier Lyrique and is an alumnus of numerous young artist programs. Today, Marcia passes her stage experience and training on to her private students, as well as the young singers attending her lively vocal masterclasses at high schools and Universities in Toronto and online. She recently launched her mini-memoir, Botox Me, which ignited her one-on-one coaching program, S.O.S. Sessions for Singers Overcoming Setbacks. Marcia is thrilled to have been asked to mentor the artists of Opera by Request's summer production of Bizet's Carmen. To learn more about Marcia, please visit marciawhitehead.com

MALCOM VELLA

Costume Design

Malcolm Vella is a Maltese-born designer and dressmaker who's been working in the Canadian fashion industry for over 30 years. He currently works for cleo Canada as the design coordinator and his side hustle is creating custom garments and other sewing projects from wedding dresses, prom dresses, Halloween costumes curtains, cushions etc.. and all sorts of alterations. Malcolm also enjoys creating outfits and costumes for himself as Halloween is always a fun time. You can follow him on Instagram! @vellamalcolm and @malcolmdoeshalloween

Tina Faye

Collaborative pianist

Nate Ben-Horin

Collaborative pianist

THOMAS SADOWSKI

Production Assistant

GLENN SEVILLO

Graphic Artist, website

KENNON VAUGHAN

Videographer

GREG KING

Photographer

ANTHONY GONCHAROV

Graphic designer (Carmen poster)

NIKITA LAVRES

Social media content creator

JANINA DZIEDZIOLA

Newsletter

Donors

OUR 2022-2023 DONORS

The Jackman Foundation

Voices of Colour Music

I.A. Clarington Investments

Maurice Bygrave

Louise Davies

Ruby Maynard

Esther Thomas

Clovalyn Wilson

DONATE NOW THROUGH CANADA HELPS

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Beauthy Ashley, Glen Backert, Michael Bygrave, Madge Bygrave, Maurice Bygrave, Don Dos Santos, Louise Davies, Janina Dziedziola, Cathy Moran, Ben MacDonald, Bronwen Nicholson, Thomas Sadowski, Constance Scrafield, Eulalie Walling- Sampson, Karen Sampson, Conroy Williams, and many other behind the scenes volunteers

MVL Farm O/B Maurice Bygrave

Willowdale Presbyterian Church and Monika Schneider, space rental coordinator

Our Silent Auction Donors

NST'S SUMMER STAGE SEASON

SUMMERSTAGE 2023 - UPCOMING SHOWS AND EVENTS

CLICK THE POSTERS TO ACCESS THE EVENTS BELOW

OPERA PUB - AUGUST 15, 2023

ONLINE SILENT AUCTION - till August 20, 2023