On October 30th, the Canadian Opera Company’s annual Centre Stage: Ensemble Studio Competition took place at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, co-chaired by Lily Li and Al Ramsay. With this yearsHollywood-inspired theme of “Lights. Camera. Opera”, the opera house rolled out the red carpet for arts lovers, trend setters, and passionate leaders of Toronto’s philanthropic community who also love a bit of competition! Guests were invited to witness, and cast their own vote in, the exciting competition finale, hosted this year by Canadian actor and comedian Emma Hunter.
The 11th annual Centre Stage: Ensemble Studio Competition, also serves as a signature fundraiser in support of artistic and career development for emerging Canadian opera singers at Canadian Opera Company. The competition featured 7 finalists from across the country, vying for cash prizes and chance to be invited to the Ensemble Studio. Guest judges included Elaine Overholt, famed Hollywood and Broadway vocal coach and performer and Edith Wiens, celebrated Canadian soprano and distinguished voice teacher. Ariana Maubach won first place!
Following the competition guests enjoyed an elegant plated meal designed by Chef Arnaud Bloquel, executive chef at Michelin-recommended fine dining restaurant Lucie, expertly paired with wines provided by Cloudsley Cellars, amongst the night’s competition winners and current artists of the Ensemble Studio. To round out the night, guests were treated to spontaneous dinner performances and an old Hollywood Portrait Studio.
Hillary LeBlanc
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