Slavic Soul is a curated performance led by conductor, pianist, and vocal coach Lada Valešová, an internationally recognised specialist in Czech and Russian repertoire. Praised for her “exceptional musical insight and rare affinity for Slavic song” and widely regarded as a leading authority in this field, Valešová brings deep stylistic expertise and proven experience coaching some of today’s most notable young singers.

Originally trained at the Prague Conservatory and the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, and later at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Valešová has held coaching positions at the Royal Opera House, English National Opera, and Glyndebourne. Her work spans opera, recital, and film, and she is particularly sought after for her interpretative guidance in Slavic languages and vocal style.

The concert features NYOA Artists alongside participants from NYOA’s Community Choral Programme, providing a meaningful point of intersection between national talent and local community singers. Slavic Soul contributes to the residency by offering young artists direct exposure to highly specialist coaching, ensemble preparation, and performance experience under a recognised expert in the repertoire.

TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED HERE

Opera Odyssey is the culminating performance of the NYOA Hybrid Programme, presenting a curated sequence of operatic scenes designed to strengthen young artists’ technical, musical, and dramatic capability. The module focuses on ensemble literacy, intentional storytelling, and the craft of bringing character and narrative to life in an intimate theatre setting.

The programme centres on Mozart, with scenes from Le Nozze di Figaro, Bastien and Bastienne, and The Magic Flute, and extends into contrasting repertoire including Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, Beethoven’s Fidelio, Mozart’s Don Giovanni, and Bellini’s La Sonnambula.

This selection offers artists a wide stylistic range, supporting development in text, character work, and collaborative preparation. Opera Odyssey provides an essential platform for applied learning in scene work and performance. The MTG Century Theatre’s intimate scale and acoustics create the ideal environment for this module, allowing the nuances of character, ensemble interaction, and narrative detail to emerge with clarity and artistic focus.

BUY TICKETS

Hansel and Gretel – An Opera in Concert marks the very first public presentation of National Youth Opera Aotearoa, a newly formed national training platform based in Hawke’s Bay and drawing talented young singers from across Aotearoa New Zealand. This special performance is conducted by the celebrated Lada Valešová, a Czech-born pianist and conductor known internationally for her work at the Royal Opera House, Opera Holland Park, and major European festivals. Valešová is admired for her sensitive musicianship and her deep commitment to nurturing emerging artists, making her the perfect leader for NYOA’s inaugural event.

This is a delightful Opera in Concert performance of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved classic Hansel and Gretel, presented in a family-friendly format. Tickets are offered on a koha / pay-what-you-can basis to ensure full community access, with a generous contribution from Mayceys Sweets. As a special treat, every child receives a free bag of sweets at the performance.

BUY TICKETS

Hansel and Gretel – An Opera in Concert marks the very first public presentation of National Youth Opera Aotearoa, a newly formed national training platform based in Hawke’s Bay and drawing talented young singers from across Aotearoa New Zealand. This special performance is conducted by the celebrated Lada Valešová, a Czech-born pianist and conductor known internationally for her work at the Royal Opera House, Opera Holland Park, and major European festivals. Valešová is admired for her sensitive musicianship and her deep commitment to nurturing emerging artists, making her the perfect leader for NYOA’s inaugural event.

This is a delightful Opera in Concert performance of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved classic Hansel and Gretel, presented in a family-friendly format. Tickets are offered on a koha / pay-what-you-can basis to ensure full community access, with a generous contribution from Mayceys Sweets. As a special treat, every child receives a free bag of sweets at the performance.

BUY TICKETS