Operalia, the renowned international opera competition, returns to Shanghai from October 26 to November 1, showcasing global talent and legendary judges.
Operalia competition in Shanghai
From October 26 to November 1, the international opera competition Operalia will take place in Shanghai at the Conservatoire de musique and the Shangyin Opera. History and reputation of Operalia
Founded in 1993 by renowned tenor Plácido Domingo, the competition has launched the careers of many artists now recognized worldwide, such as Joyce DiDonato, Ludovic Tézier, and Sonya Yoncheva. Participants from around the world
Thirty-four competitors from countries including Armenia, Cuba, Ukraine, and South Korea will take part. Five of them are Chinese contestants competing at home, including baritone Zihao Li. French representatives in the competition
France is represented by two artists: mezzo-soprano Léontine Maridat-Zimmerlin, a graduate of the Académie de l'Opéra-Comique and a Revelation category nominee at the Victoires de la musique classique 2026, and Franco-American soprano Lauren Mimouni. Other notable competitors
Other prominent participants include British tenor Robert Lewis, a former member of the Lyon Opera Studio, and Spanish soprano Sofía Esparza. Jury includes leading figures in opera
The competition’s jury, announced on October 14, features twelve notable figures, including Sophie de Lint, director of the National Opera of the Netherlands, and Liao Changyong, president of the Shanghai Conservatory and a former Operalia winner. Opportunities for competitors
For the participants, the competition offers not only a chance to gain recognition but also potential career opportunities, including engagements at prestigious opera houses.
