In 2022, we launched a new annual summer prize for a member of the company who has shone during the season and shows the most potential for a successful career.

Aimed at young professional singers early in their careers, it encompasses vocal and stage craft, as well as communication skills.

In 2023 we decided to open up this award to include also those not seen on the stage during the Festival: the Assistant Directors and the large band of technicians who are essential for every non-musical aspect of the performance, both on and behind the stage.

We now award 2 prizes: £7500 for the most promising young performer, and £5000 for the most promising young technical member of the company.

For the most promising young performer, the directors of each show and the resident Chorus Master are asked to observe the rehearsal process and performances closely and convey their recommendations to Michael Chance, Artistic Director, and Scott Cooper, Director of Artistic Administration, who together cast all the productions and are often in the rehearsal room.

The Production Manager, the Director of Operations, and the members of each creative team are likewise asked to observe the full production process and recommend candidates for consideration of the Technical Award.

Young people committing their professional lives to performance in theatre and opera have many financial challenges, not least the cost of tuition and professional development. The two years of Covid-imposed silence have been particularly debilitating for those starting their professional lives in the arts.

At the end of the year, we will ask the winners to let us know how they used the funding and the difference it made to them.