International Opera Awards Finalists Revealed

The International Opera Awards are pleased to announce the finalists for this year's Awards. These were selected by an international jury chaired by John Allison, editor of Opera magazine and classical music critic with The Daily Telegraph: "It's gratifying to see how the International Opera Awards just keep growing. With a record number of nominations to consider, and our biggest and most international jury yet, I'm delighted to say that our exciting shortlists-covering six continents and around 30 countries-reflect the truly cosmopolitan nature of the art form. Despite the challenges faced by opera companies almost everywhere, opera is vibrantly alive."

The 2018 International Opera Awards, hosted by BBC Radio 3 presenter Petroc Trelawny for the third year running, will take place on Monday 9 April at the London Coliseum. The ceremony will be directed by Ella Marchment. As in previous years the evening will feature live performances from internationally renowned singers accompanied by an orchestra. Past performances have been given by Anna Bonitatibus, Lawrence Brownlee, Bryan Hymel, Ermonela Jaho, Aleksandra Kurzak and Stuart Skelton. Once again BBC Radio 3 is partnered with the International Opera Awards and will broadcast highlights from the awards ceremony in a special 90-minute programme on Sunday 15 April at 7.30pm.

The finalists below have been selected for their achievements over the 2017 calendar year. In addition to the 18 categories listed, the winners of the awards for Philanthropist, Lifetime Achievement, and Leadership will be announced at a later date. All categories except for the Readers' Award (the only vote open to the general public) are decided on by the jury. Category sponsors at this year's Awards include the Good Governance Institute, The Vineyard, the Royal Opera House Muscat and Charles Heidsieck champagne. The Awards are supported by Nexus Group.

The International Opera Awards were created by opera lover and philanthropist Harry Hyman. Since the first awards ceremony in 2013 the evening has not only celebrated established stars, but also supported the next generation of talent. The Awards raise money for the Opera Awards Foundation, a charity that provides bursaries to aspiring operatic talent around the world.

http://www.operaawards.org/

Readers' Award sponsored by Opera Magazine voting page: operaawards.org/vote/ (deadline Friday 9 March)

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