Participation Projects
At Irish National Opera, we are dedicated to reflecting the diverse tapestry of modern Ireland through our work. We believe that opera is for everyone, and we're passionate about collaboration.
We reach out to people from all corners of Ireland, from all walks of life, and extend an open invitation to newcomers in the world of opera. Together, we share stories, explore creativity, and create unforgettable performances.
Our projects come in various forms, each offering unique opportunities for participation. Whether you're an aspiring artist or someone looking to experience the magic of opera firsthand, there's a project waiting for you. Stay tuned, as exciting projects may be on the horizon, giving you the chance to be a part of our artistic journey.
If you work with a community group. We’d love to hear from you and learn more about the work you do. Contact our Studio and Outreach Producer, James Bingham at james@irishnationalopera.ie.
Explore previous projects
Sing & Explore Faust | Opera Workshop
Participation is a key component in unlocking the many benefits of engaging with art. In conjunction with our current production of Gounod’s Faust, we invited the public to join us on Monday evening to be guided through a chorus from the opera and perform it in the Gaiety Theatre alongside professional opera singers from the chorus. The event was led by INO Artistic Director, Fergus Sheil and Faust Assistant Director John King. The participants also had an opportunity to explore the different elements that go into creating a fully staged production. It was great for us to meet so many opera-curious singers of all ages and abilities.
Out of the Ordinary | VR Community Opera
Out of the Ordinary/As an nGnách, an exciting new Virtual Reality Community Opera developed for and with people living across Ireland. Created through a series of online and in-person workshops, the opera explores new methods of co-creation, placing our communities at the centre of the opera creation process. Our professional creative team has worked alongside participants living across Ireland, learning from each other, developing the composition, narrative and design through ongoing conversation and collaboration throughout 2021 and 2022. The process has allowed us to explore a different way of making work, and we can now offer audiences the chance to experience opera as it has never been experienced before. Presented in virtual reality, we hope the work will start conversations around opera, technology and art, who it’s for and what it can be. More info.
Horse Ape Bird | Youth Opera
David Coonan and Dylan Coburn Gray’s youth opera, with its chorus of teenagers, asks the question: Are animals animals because they lack something we possess, or vice versa? Ambitious, playful, thoughtful...Horse Ape Bird is for anyone who has ever wondered if their dog loves them back. Composer David Coonan explains why he thinks opera can be something hugely rewarding, engaging and relevant for young people today. More info.
Sing William Tell | Opera Workshop
In celebration of World Opera Day 2022, we invited over 100 singing enthusiasts along with the INO orchestra and 6 soloists from the INO chorus to join us for a workshops and a live-streamed performance of two choral movements from our production of Rossini's William Tell. The event was led by INO artistic director Fergus Sheil and took place in Dublin Castle on World Opera Day, 25th October, presented by Irish National Opera and the Office of Public Works, in association with Sing Ireland.