Ulster Touring Opera: TDN 2026
Short Project Title: Ulster Youth Opera 26-27 will commission three new operas for young Northern Irish performers.
Bio: Ulster Touring Opera specialises in live touring and talent development. In 2023 UTO launched the Ulster Youth Opera programme, commissioning contemporary works by emerging Northern Irish composers and delivering accessible training for 8–18-year-olds. Combining professional mentorship with cultural inclusion, UTO fosters creativity and wellbeing through innovative performances in iconic venues, showcasing Northern Ireland’s unique heritage and artistic excellence.
Programme Description: ‘Ulster Youth Opera 2026-27’ builds on UTO’s experience of presenting work written for young voices by living composers. In Summer 2026 UTO will commission three Northern Irish/Northern Ireland based composers through an open call to write operas for soprano, chamber ensemble and youth chorus. In September 2026 the Ulster Youth Opera branches will begin rehearsals for the operas, which will be performed during the Belfast Children’s Festival 2027. Combining professional mentorship with performances in iconic venues the project promotes new music, nurtures young talent and fosters inclusivity.