Greetings
from SOLT!

The roster of SOLT 2026 new generation artists is an impressive confluence of talent and musicality at the historic Alumnae Theatre, one that augurs well for the future of the vocal arts in Canada. These artists aim for a place on the stages of the world, Paris, London, Buenos Aires, New York, Madrid, Vienna, Salzburg and many more. Before they get there, we are privileged to make their acquaintance through their commitment to the pursuit of excellence and sheer abnegation to the art form, to opera and to the public. It is here, at SOLT that they have convened to check on Konstantin Stanislavsky, our experts in the field of opera to the greatness of Menotti, Janacek and our very own Canadian creators, the team of composer Victor Davies and librettist Eugene Benson. And it is right here that they will present their work, their vocal talent and their artistry to you, your friends and colleagues. Each performance reaches an important and effective relationship that fosters success and career development and starts an amazing journey of never-ending discoveries, multitude of collaborations and music that is as inspiring as it is memorable. Their work is challenging and rewarding. The minute their hard work is thought to have been achieved, there will be harder work ahead. I hope each member of the audience will support their journey and will gladden to see them next on the stages of a grand opera house or in front of a leading symphony orchestra. And when that happens, you’ll be pleased to have witness their performances at SOLT.

 

Celebrating more than four decades in the presentation of lyric theatre by emerging Canadian artists, Summer Opera Lyric Theatre’s 2026 season features Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Medium, an in-depth dramatic presentation of the ravages of war and of those who succumb to the effects of collateral damage. The Medium is a powerful psychological portrait of turmoil…personal and all encompassing, while the central role of Madame Flora is a pinnacle for mezzo-sopranos, as incandescent as it is grief ridden. 

​

Leos Janacek’s riveting study of social and cultural oppression is Katya Kabanova’s domain. Like The Medium, tragedy finds its way through in Katya’s quest for freedom, the release of fear and the struggle against subjugation. 

​

SOLT’s 2026 Artistic Program is rounded out by Oscar Wilde’s comedy of manners, The Importance of Being Earnest, brilliantly adapted by Davies and Benson in a transformative and daring vision of this British master work, making SOLT’s 2026 summer a fully innovative and diverse adventure for all opera lovers both on the stage and in the audience. 

 

An impressive roster of vocalists from across Canada will thrill and entertain you with their fresh and insightful dramatic interpretations at the intimacy and acoustic excellence of the Alumnae Theatre in Toronto. Twelve performance culminate eight weeks of intensive training in the performing arts, movement, deportment and acting technique. Summer Opera Lyric Theatre is generously supported by the Estate of Sandra Marlene Painter, the Jackman Foundation and many individuals, who like you, are committed to the art form and to our intrepid new generation of artists.