Opera Theatre & Vocal Performance at Florida Atlantic University
Established in 1966, Florida Atlantic Opera Theatre ranks among Florida’s longest-standing opera training programs. Under the direction of Associate Professor of Voice Dr. Mitchell Hutchings, the program remains focused on strong academic preparation and meaningful performance experience, while preparing students for the demands of 21st-century opera through a balance of tradition, crossover repertoire, modern technology, and active collaborations. Florida Atlantic Opera Theatre is also the first international ensemble at Florida Atlantic University, offering singers the chance to study abroad in Italy through our annual FAU Opera in Italy study abroad opportunity.
The program places primary emphasis on solo vocal performance, with students working on operatic, Musical Theatre, and commercial crossover repertoire under the direct guidance of our faculty. Beyond developing vocal expression and technical skills, students receive training in fundamental acting, stage movement, and dramatic portrayal.
Collaboration is central to our work. Students rehearse with directors, conductors, dancers, and pianists, creating an environment built on shared artistic growth. Our relationships with opera organizations at the local, national, and international levels support regular master classes and workshops on campus. These visits provide students with direct access to a wide range of artistic approaches and professional insights.
Students in the Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and Master of Music in Vocal Performance programs receive comprehensive training in voice, opera, lyric theatre, language, and stage performance. Coursework and performance opportunities prepare singers for professional careers, advanced study, or international artistic work.
Vocal Performance Degree at Florida Atlantic The Vocal Performance curriculum is designed to support the artistic and technical development of each singer. Students focus on solo vocal technique, acting, movement, audition skills, dramatic interpretation, language and diction, and repertoire from the Baroque era through contemporary works. Each semester includes public performances featuring opera, operetta, zarzuela, or musical theatre scenes, as well as fully staged productions.
Voice majors study with experienced artist-faculty and rehearse in a collaborative environment alongside directors, conductors, pianists, choreographers, and guest clinicians. Florida Atlantic singers receive individualized guidance to support artistic growth, technical development, and long-term vocal health.
2025 to 2026 Opera Season at Florida Atlantic Pietro Carlo Guglielmi's Amalia e Carlo (1812) October 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM Location: University Theatre (Boca Raton)
Humperdinck's Hansel and Gretel March 20 and 21, 2026 | 7:00 PM Location: University Theatre (Boca Raton) Tickets: https://fauevents.com/
FAU Opera in Italy Education Abroad Program May 18–June 18, 2026 Location: Italian Riviera | La Spezia, Italy
Students study Italian language, vocal performance, and opera repertoire while working directly with faculty from around the world in collaboration with the Conservatorio Giacomo Puccini La Spezia. Participants perform in concerts, attend master classes, and experience Italian musical culture while earning academic credit through Florida Atlantic University. More information is available at operainitaly.org
Guest Artists and Clinicians Recent visitors include international singers, pedagogues, pianists, conductors, and composers: Pedro A. Arroyo, tenor Lindsey Blackhurst, soprano Manuel Castillo, tenor Ray Chenez, countertenor Rachel Copeland, soprano Esha Datta, soprano Jennifer Davison, soprano Saundra DeAthos, soprano Sara Duchovnay, soprano Martha Eason, soprano Matt Edwards, baritone Donald George, tenor Clay Hilley, heldentenor Sarah Hutchings, composer Kim Josephson, baritone Joanna Latini, soprano & arts administrator Michela Lombardi, jazz vocalist Desiree Maira, mezzo-soprano Harold Meers, tenor Marina Melaranci, mezzo-soprano Fabio Menchetti, pianist Andrew Potter, bass Karen Roethlisberger Verm, pianist Dilan Şaka, mezzo-soprano Ana Seixas, soprano Helen Tintes, mezzo-soprano Craig Verm, baritone
