Would-be opera stars fly in for contest

Fledgling opera singers are travelling from all over the world to compete in an Irish competition with the potential to launch them on the international circuit, it was revealed today.

The fifth Veronica Dunne International Singing Competition has attracted 42 competitors from countries including Mexico, Italy, Seoul, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Poland, Germany and Istanbul.

The famed singing teacher, who has worked with many stars including Finbar Wright, said the event had provided a foothold into the industry for many, such as past competitor Anthony Kearns.

“A lot of training would have gone into it before the singers attend the competition,” she said. “It is a tough competition as they must have nine operatic arias.

“It has opened many doors for people as we invite a lot of agents over to attend.”

She added: “Most people who enter the competition get some work out of it.”

People from operas including the Irish Chamber Orchestra, Opera Ireland, Wexford Festival Opera and Ulster Orchestra are expected to attend and have often cast competitors in the event, which takes place from January 19-25, for their productions.

The first competition, organised by the famed 79-year-old singing teacher, took place in 1995. The first winner, Orla Boylan, went on to have a successful international career. Other first prize winners include American Norah Ansellem, Byung-Soon Lee from Korea, and Italy’s Stefania Spaggiari.

“There are a lot of males taking part this year, which is marvellous. We have four tenors, which is unusual,” she said.

Ms Dunne added: “It is going to be the best competition yet as the standard is very high.”

The singing teacher said the competition, which offers 30,000 euro (£21,000) in prizes, with 10,000 euro (£7,000) for first place, provided a great opportunity for budding Irish opera performers.

“It is marvellous to compete against international singers in their own home country,” she said of the event, which will be run in the Freemasons’ Hall in Dublin city centre.

“The Irish singers will give them a run for their money, they are very good.”