Auditions

Director and Music Director for Ariadne auf Naxos

Heroic Opera Cariadne teaserompany is seeking both a Director and a Music Director for an upcoming production of Ariadne auf Naxos, a beloved opera by Richard Strauss. We are committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive artistic environment, with a focus on featuring underrepresented communities and providing opportunities to individuals facing barriers in the arts.

We value maintaining a positive, welcoming, fun rehearsal and performance environment, and we are looking for individuals who can lead rehearsals and offer constructive feedback to performers while remaining supportive, inclusive, and fun.

  • Location: Vancouver, BC

Production Overview

  • Opera: Ariadne auf Naxos by Richard Strauss (in German with English dialogue/surtitles)
  • Performance Dates: June 18, 20, 22, 2024
  • Venue: Annex Theatre, Vancouver
  • Rehearsal Dates: May–June 2024 (dates TBA)
  1. Director

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and execute a unique artistic vision for the staging of Ariadne auf Naxos.
  • Collaborate with the Music Director, cast, and production team to ensure cohesion between the music and dramatic elements. 
  • Guide performers in developing their characters and interpreting the work.
  • Collaborate with technical staff/volunteers to bring the production’s vision to life. Most tech staff are volunteer, so assistance creating lighting/set/costume plan may be needed
  • Lead rehearsals in an inclusive and supportive manner, ensuring that all cast and crew feel empowered to contribute creatively.
  • Collaborate with musical director and technical staff in developing an efficient rehearsal schedule.

Qualifications:

  • Experience directing opera or other musical/theatrical productions.
  • A strong understanding of opera and the classical music tradition, knowledge of Ariadne aux Naxos an asset
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate with a team and manage a diverse cast and crew.
  • Functional knowledge of German is an asset.
  • Commitment to inclusivity and a passion for making the arts accessible to a wide audience.

2. Music Director

Responsibilities:

  • Lead the musical preparation of Ariadne auf Naxos, including conducting rehearsals and performances.
  • Work closely with the Director to ensure the production’s musical and dramatic elements are aligned.
  • Coach singers in vocal technique and interpretation of their roles.
  • Collaborate with the pianist to ensure a high-quality musical performance.
  • Provide leadership to the pianist and singers, creating a professional and supportive environment.

Qualifications:

  • Experience as a Music Director or Conductor for opera or musical works.
  • In-depth knowledge of the opera repertoire. Specific knowledge of Ariadne auf Naxos would be a strong asset.
  • Strong communication skills and experience working with singers, actors, and production teams.
  • Functional knowledge of German is an asset.
  • A pianist has already been engaged, so piano performance is not expected.

Compensation & Timeline

  • Compensation: Pay is based on a profit share model. Equity members will be engaged under an Artist Collective contract.
  • Application Deadline: November 1st, 2024

To Apply

Please send the following to heroicopera@gmail.com:

  • Resume/CV highlighting relevant experience
  • Cover letter detailing your vision for the production (for Directors) or your approach to musical direction (for Music Directors)
  • Portfolio or links to previous work, if available

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