queerPOPERA
We are a pop-up opera company dedicated to showcasing the diverse narratives of the LGBTQ+ community through the emotive power of opera.
OUR MISSION /
queerPOPERA is a vibrant pop-up opera company dedicated to showcasing the diverse narratives of the LGBTQ+ community through the emotive power of opera. With a deep appreciation for the rich history of queerness in opera, we acknowledge the historical exclusion and discrimination faced by individuals of diverse identities within the industry. Our mission is to actively rectify these injustices by creating a space that embraces and celebrates the full spectrum of gender identities and sexual orientations. Through our performances, we reimagine traditional stories through a modern, inclusive lens. We are committed to challenging systemic barriers, fostering diversity in casting and production teams, and advocating for equity and inclusion within the opera community. Together, we strive to spread queer joy and empowerment through opera!
AUDITIONS /
queerPOPERA CORE ARTISTS
To audition to be a queerPOPERA Core Artist, email the following to info@queerpop.org
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resume and headshot
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two contrasting videos
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a short paragraph about why singing queer storylines is important for you as an opera singer
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
To audition for our pop-up event with LUTHER PRIDE in Decorah, Iowa, in September 2024, email the following to info@queerpop.org
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resume and headshot
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one video of what you sing best
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a short paragraph about why singing queer storylines is important to you as an opera singer
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a brief concept of what you would like to sing and why
Applications are due June 1.
queerPOPERA Partnerships /
with an Opera Company
Example: You have a queer storyline featured in your upcoming season and want to make sure your marketing and production isn’t performative, but rather highlights queer voices.
The options are endless, but you could hire us for the following:
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Connect with your local community and collaborate with local organizations to make sure queer people feel invited and welcome to the production.
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Observe rehearsals to make sure the authentic queer experience is shared on stage.
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Talk with donors or patrons that may feel uncomfortable about the subject matter and share why telling these stories is consistent with the history of opera.
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Give a talk at a promotional event.
Are you an Opera Company that wants to tell more queer stories, highlight queer voices, or connect with your queer community? Partner with us!
Do you see a need for more queer stories in your community? Partner with us!
We can hire queer performers and program a concert or production based on your needs and goals.
queerPOPERA Partnerships /
with a Community Organization
Example: You have a festival coming up and want a fantastic final performance to wrap up the celebration. You have a vision for a collaboration across different artistic mediums drawing in a diverse audience –drag queens, pop singers, slam poets, opera singers, dancers and more! With an event of this scale, you want to work with a team to make it happen. We can collaborate to make your dreams a reality!
One of the joys of queerPOPERA is that we are not location specific. If you see a need in your community, we can collaborate with you. We want to take down any barriers companies and organizations may have to telling queer, operatic stories. Let us bridge the gap.
Submit your proposal now!
LINEUP
Fall 2024
Partnership with Luther Pride in September
We are excited to announce our collaboration with Luther Pride for an upcoming concert next fall, featuring performances by faculty, staff, alumni, and students. In line with our commitment to fair compensation, all performers will receive payment through voluntary tips from the audience.
Stay tuned for more details!
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SUBSCRIBE
FOLLOW US
@queerPOPERA
MEET OUR FOUNDER /
Soprano, Jaime Marie Webb, has performed in leading roles across the U.S. and abroad. Most recently, she made her Carnegie Hall debut singing scenes as Violetta and Lakmé and her mainstage debut as Annina at Opera Omaha. Select performance credits include Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor, Rosina in Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Norina in Don Pasquale, Micaëla in Carmen, Musetta in La Bohème, Hanna Glawari in Die lustige Witwe, Casilda in The Gondoliers, and Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro. Currently, Webb serves on the Voice Faculty at Luther College where she lives with her wife, Ali Webb and dog, Gigi. Artist, activist, and queer rights advocate, Jaime is passionate about engaging in communities. Noticing a need for more queer storylines in the opera industry, Mrs. Webb decided to found queerPOPERA.
Opera has always been gay. Let's keep it that way!