What's Up With Opera?

Pacific Opera Victoria
  • 4.7 (19)
  • MUSIC COMMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

As the world reckons with racism and sexism, opera luminaries including director Peter Sellars, bass-baritone Davóne Tines and conductor/soprano Barbara Hannigan dig into what’s changing — and what needs to change — in opera, and why now is the time for evolution and disruption in the centuries-old art form.

  1. MAR 14

    Season 3 Episode 3 | Lawrence Brownlee

    On this episode, tenor Lawrence Brownlee discusses Rising, his Grammy-nominated album inspired by the Harlem Renaissance. He explores his bel canto repertoire, social justice, mentorship, and the power of music to inspire change. Theme music by Epidemic Sound.

    35 min

  2. MAR 7

    Season 3 Episode 2 | Charlotte Siegel, Miriam Khalil, & Tracy Dahl

    This International Women’s Day, we sit down with three opera legends—Charlotte Siegel, Miriam Khalil, and Tracy Dahl—to explore what it truly means to be a diva. From reclaiming the word to embracing its power, these extraordinary artists share their personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the opera world. Theme music by Epidemic Sound.

    41 min

  3. 2024-11-22

    Season 3 Episode 1 | Barbara Hannigan

    In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Grammy and Juno Award-winning soprano and conductor Barbara Hannigan! Recently named Musical America’s 2025 Artist of the Year, Barbara reflects on her illustrious career, her commitment to contemporary music, and what this prestigious honor means to her. Join us as Barbara shares her insights on the thrilling […]

    39 min

  4. 2024-07-26

    Season 2 Episode 7 | Jonathan McCullough and Christopher Allen

    Join us for a great conversation with Jonathan McCullough and Christopher Allen. Jonathan, a Grammy-nominated baritone and opera director, is praised by the NY Times as a “pacesetter for cinematic opera.” Christopher, a recipient of The Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award, has worked with top opera companies like LA Opera and Washington National Opera. Together, […]

    53 min

  5. 2024-07-19

    Season 2 Episode 6 | Asitha Tennekoon

    This week we sit down with Asitha Tennekoon, tenor and co-founder of Amplified Opera, an indie opera company based in Toronto. Asitha discuss tropes and concerns with people of colour in the world of opera, as well as what drives him and brings him joy. Theme music by Epidemic Sound.

    52 min

  6. 2024-07-12

    Season 2 Episode 5 | Fleur Baron

    We join Fleur Baron, mezzo soprano and curator of recital programs, exploring music from contemporary and baroque. We explore just how intricate and personal her curation work is, how it uplifts personal stories such as amplifying the voices of Asian creators and other diverse communities.  Music in this Episode: Tungu Tungu by Teodoro Varcarcel Doundou […]

    58 min

  7. 2024-07-05

    Season 2 Episode 4 | Patrick Hansen

    Join Patrick Hansen, Director of Opera Studies & Opera McGill Artistic Director, as he discusses dismantling barriers for young musicians, hopes for the future of opera, and an encounter with the legendary Liberace! Theme music by Epidemic Sound.

    1h 2m

  8. 2024-06-28

    Season 2 Episode 3 | Davóne Tines

    American bass-baritone Davóne Tines returns to examine the triumphs and challenges of self-expression and self producing; changing what it means to be a classical singer.

    56 min
See All (20)

Hosts & Guests

4.7
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

As the world reckons with racism and sexism, opera luminaries including director Peter Sellars, bass-baritone Davóne Tines and conductor/soprano Barbara Hannigan dig into what’s changing — and what needs to change — in opera, and why now is the time for evolution and disruption in the centuries-old art form.

Information

  • Creator
    Pacific Opera Victoria
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Pacific Opera Victoria
  • Show Website
    What's Up With Opera?

You Might Also Like