The City of Cape Town would like to congratulate Cape Town Opera (CTO) on receiving an accolade at the International Opera Awards held at the Teatro Real in Madrid last week. CTO receives support through the City’s Grant-in-Aid funding programme.
The City of Cape Town’s Arts and Culture Branch, which is part of the Social Development and Early Childhood Development Department, is proud to share in the success of Cape Town Opera.
The CTO Foundation Studio programme won the ‘Equal Opportunities and Impact’ category at the awards ceremony.
The Foundation Studio had its pilot year in 2021, and aims to give high school learners and young singers without a music literacy background the knowledge and skills needed to enrol for a music course at a tertiary institution. Learners receive one voice, one music theory and one keyboard skills lesson per week with all materials needed including stationery, a meal and transport to and from the Artscape Theatre Centre. This assists participants in bridging the gap towards becoming subject music pupils.
‘Being nominated for this award, alongside fellow South African nominees Pretty Yende, Golda Schultz and Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha, makes us so proud and shines a bright spotlight on the world-class singing talent found in absolutely every corner of South Africa. We are thrilled to be recognised for this educational initiative which focuses on disadvantaged young learners and introduces them to a potentially fulfilling and life-changing career path utilising their vocal talent,’ said CTO Managing Director Alex Gabriel.
‘We are so honoured to have received this incredible accolade that acknowledges the sterling work our teams do in the communities in and around Cape Town. It is a phenomenal accolade!’ said Cape Town Opera’s Artistic Director Magdalene Minnaar.
In August this year, the Cape Town Opera together with the City’s Arts and Culture Branch hosted educational sessions in Delft and Rocklands, Mitchells Plain. These Opera Block sessions for children and caregivers were well received as communities do not often have the opportunity to experience opera and the learning experiences it unlocks.
‘We would like to congratulate Cape Town Opera on this wonderful achievement. This is a wonderful example of the connective value of well-designed creative programmes, linking educational, knowledge sharing and cultural opportunities in such a way that young aspiring musicians can realise their potential. We are proud to be associated with Cape Town Opera and will continue to partner and work closely with them for the betterment of our communities and the learning experiences created for children, said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross.
Source: City Of Cape Town