Opera Theatre & Vocal Performance at Florida Atlantic University
Established in 1966, FAU Opera Theatre ranks among Florida’s most long-standing opera training programs. Under the leadership of Associate Professor of Voice Dr. Mitchell Hutchings, the program continues to maintain its commitment to strong academic preparation and performance experience. FAU Opera Theatre is also the first international vocal ensemble at Florida Atlantic University, offering singers the chance to study in Italy through our FAU Opera in Italy study abroad opportunity.
The program places a strong emphasis on solo vocal performance, with students working on operatic repertoire under direct guidance from 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, pianists, and their peers, creating an environment built on shared artistic growth. Our partnerships 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 BM in Vocal Performance and MM in Vocal Performance programs receive comprehensive training in classical voice, opera, lyric theatre, and stage performance. Coursework and performance opportunities prepare singers for professional careers, advanced study, and international artistic work.
Vocal Performance Degree at FAU 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 that includes directors, conductors, pianists, choreographers, and guest clinicians. FAU singers receive individualized guidance to support artistic growth, technical development, and long-term vocal health.
2025 to 2026 Opera Season at FAU 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 Michela Lombardi, jazz vocalist 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
