KU School of Music Opera Department named in several categories for The American Prize

LAWRENCE, KANSAS — The University of Kansas School of Music’s opera department has been named a finalist in four categories for The American Prize. It’s production of Sweeney Todd was nominated for Musical Theater Performance, and Dido and Aeneas was nominated for Opera Performance, and Professor of Voice & Opera Stella Markou is a finalist for the Charles Nelson Reilly Prize in Directing for the University’s production of Sweeney Todd as well as Directing in Dido and Aeneas. 

The KU Voice and Opera program provides intensive, career-oriented training for students pursuing careers in opera, musical theater, music therapy, music education, and vocal pedagogy. Each year, the program presents two fully staged opera productions, alongside an opera scenes program known for its creative approach. Frequent collaborations with the KU Theatre Department allow students to perform a varied repertoire, from classical opera and operetta to contemporary and musical theater works.

KU Opera’s students benefit from a distinguished faculty, performance opportunities with local organizations like Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and apprenticeships with notable summer programs such as Santa Fe Opera, Glimmerglass, Opera Theater of St. Louis, and more. World-renowned artists frequently visit KU to lead master classes, coaching sessions, and Q&A discussions.

This award underscores KU’s commitment to fostering the next generation of vocal talent through world-class training and diverse performance experiences. For more information, visit KU School of Music's website.