La bohème Children’s Chorus Expression of Interest
Opera Queensland is seeking to cast the Children’s Chorus for our upcoming production of Puccini’s La bohème, as part of Opera Queensland’s Season 2025.
This new co-production is presented by Opera Queensland and West Australian Opera in association with QPAC and Brisbane Festival, directed by Matt Reuben James Ward and conducted by Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s Chief Conductor Umberto Clerici. The production will transport audiences back to a 1920s Parisian winter set amongst designer Charles Davis’ ingenious large, rotating greenhouse.
Side-by-side with internationally renowned soloists, the 38-voice Opera Queensland Chorus and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, this life-changing opportunity will nurture talented young performers, foster a love of the arts, and provide a quality educational experience.
The La bohème season will be performed at the QPAC Lyric Theatre 4-13 September 2025, with five performances and sung in Italian.
Rehearsal venue: Opera Queensland Studio – 140 Grey Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101
Performance venue: QPAC Lyric Theatre – Cnr Grey and, Melbourne St South Brisbane QLD 4101
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS:
- must be 10-15 years old
- must still be 15 years old by the final performance on 13 September 2025
- must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, currently residing in Queensland
- must sing in treble range
- may be varied heights less than 150cm tall, with consideration given to existing costumes
- must live within 45 minutes’ travel (one way) of South Brisbane
KEY DATES:
Online applications close: Friday 13 June 2025.
Application notification: Friday 20 June 2025
Auditions: Tuesday 24 June 2025
Audition results: Friday 27 June 2025
CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE CASTING BRIEF
APPLY HERE
FAQs
Q. Who can apply to audition?
A. Applications are open to young singers aged 10-15 of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Q. Does my child need to sing operatically?
A. No, but singing with a Classical sound is preferred to a contemporary sound.
Q. Does my child need to have performed on stage before?
A. No. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn and develop in a supportive, professional environment.
Q. Does my child need to speak Italian to apply?
A. No, the pronunciation and meaning of the Italian text will be taught in rehearsals.
Q. Will my child be required during school hours?
A. No. All Children’s Chorus calls are scheduled outside of school hours, in line with the Queensland Government Child Employment Guide.
Q. What if my child is not available for some of the dates?
A. Please list these in the non-available dates on the online form, for consideration.
Q. Where do auditions take place?
A. In the Opera Queensland Studio – 140 Grey Street, South Brisbane QLD
Q. Is it possible to audition via Zoom?
A. No, auditions are in person only.
Q. What does my child wear to the audition?
A. Children are encouraged to wear comfortable casual attire with flat shoes to the audition.
Q. When should I arrive for my audition?
A. Please arrive at your audition at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time. More information will be sent to successful candidates.
Q. What will my child be expected to do during the audition?
A. If your child is successful in gaining an audition, you will receive more information. In short, there will be a piece to prepare to sing as a larger group and as a soloist.
Q. How long will the audition last?
A. The auditions will be in a group format and all children will be required for a 2-hr period, 5.30pm – 7.30pm. This session will include a group warm-up, ensemble singing and a short solo audition. Your child’s measurements will also be taken by OQ staff during this time to assist in costuming. The complete audition session is designed to be low pressure, fun and a positive experience.
Q. Will my child need to learn the La bohème music from memory?
A. Yes, all music will need to be learned from memory, but there are rehearsals to support this process.
Q. Will my child be paid for the rehearsals and performances?
A. Yes, children will be paid for all rehearsals and performances, as per the Live Performance Australia Award 2020, and in line with the Queensland Government Child Employment Guide. Children will receive an artist contract will all employment terms and conditions.
Q. How does OQ keep my child safe?
A. OQ employs professional chaperones to supervise your child at all times. Chaperones will remain with your child after rehearsals and performances until an authorised parent/guardian collects them.
Q. I still have more questions. Who should I contact?
A. Please contact Managing Producer, Alicia Cush, at artist@oq.com.au with more questions.
