Congratulations to Opera Chapman for its outstanding achievements in prestigious national competitions across the United States. These honors not only highlight the strength of the program, but also affirm, as Opera Chapman Director Marc Callahan notes, “the care, imagination, and discipline that went into each production—and the collaborative spirit that runs through the Conservatory and CoPA as a whole.”

Student performers in CoPA's production of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (2025)

Student performers in CoPA’s production of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (2025)

Opera Chapman was recognized by the National Opera Association (NOA), the most prestigious collegiate opera–awarding organizations in the country. NOA champions excellence and innovation in opera—particularly within university programs—and describes its members as “foundation builders for the future of opera.” Through its annual Opera Production Competition, national conferences, and performance opportunities, NOA celebrates exceptional work at the collegiate level. Chapman’s recognition alongside the nation’s leading music schools underscores that our students are working at the very highest level.

Student performers in CoPA's production of From the Towers of the Moon (2024)

Student performers in CoPA’s production of From the Towers of the Moon (2024)

For the 2024–2025 season, the National Opera Association awarded Opera Chapman:

  • 1st Place (Division II) for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
  • 2nd Place (Division I) for Fright Night!

Opera Chapman also received national recognition from The American Prize, the country’s most comprehensive series of nonprofit performing arts competitions. The American Prize honors outstanding performers, ensembles, directors, and composers across professional, university, community, and high school levels.

From The American Prize, Opera Chapman received:

  • 1st Place for From the Towers of the Moon
  • 2nd Place for Il sogno di Scipione

For Callahan, the most meaningful part of these awards is what they represent:

“What moves me most about these awards is knowing how hard everyone worked to get there—singers, instrumentalists, designers, stage management, and our guest collaborators. For prospective students and their families, I hope these honors signal what we see every day: Opera Chapman is a place where young artists can grow, be challenged, and create work that truly matters.”

Student performers in CoPA's production of Il sogno di Scipione (2024)

Student performers in CoPA’s production of Il sogno di Scipione (2024)

With each season, the program continues to demonstrate how CoPA’s training, mentorship, and collaborative environment empower young artists to take risks, refine their craft, and bring ambitious productions to life.