Staci DumoskiThe Opera Chapman production of Jules Massenet’s “Cinderella” has been awarded a prize in a competition hosted by the National Opera Association (NOA) for “Best Opera Production.” The spring 2023 production of “Cinderella” by Jules Massenet tied for 2nd place in the Division II category.
The production, directed by Marc Callahan with music performed by The Chapman Orchestra, was originally staged last spring and retells the classic fairy tale set in 1950s Hollywood.
The NOA’s 2022-2023 Opera Production Competition featured 87 entrants divided into undergraduate and graduate levels and into divisions according to production size and budget. A total of 24 awards were given by the judges. In the Division II category, Chapman tied with University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and 1st place in the category went to University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music.
The fact that Chapman is recognized with two schools that also offer graduate programs in opera is significant.
“First and foremost, my heartfelt congratulations go to our phenomenal students — the extraordinary cast of ‘Cinderella’! Your hard work and dedication, along with the guidance of your voice teachers, have truly paid off,” said Callahan. “Undertaking ‘Cinderella’ was no small feat, and your efforts have rightfully earned this well-deserved recognition.”
Callahan also expressed his gratitude to the team of music staff, designers, production team and supportive faculty colleagues. “Your unwavering dedication and hard work are what make productions of this caliber possible,” he said.
Learn more about Opera Chapman and the Chapman University College of Performing Arts.
