The Victoria Conservatory of Music is pleased to present Henry Purcell’s Dido & Aeneas, the culminating production of OperaFest 2026. This fully staged Baroque opera features chamber orchestra, choir, and emerging artists from the Conservatory, bringing one of opera’s most enduring masterpieces to life. Performances take place on Saturday, August 15 at 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm at Alix Goolden Performance Hall, located at 900 Johnson Street. Audiences will experience a powerful evening of music and drama, showcasing the artistry of the next generation of opera performers.
“Purcell’s ‘Dido & Aeneas’ is the operatic jewel of the Baroque period. Pure genius!” said Victoria Conservatory of Music OperaFest Artistic Director, Colin Doroschuk.
The audience can expect a deep dive into one of the most beautiful works of the Baroque era. The two casts of soloists will be entirely composed of talented Conservatory students. Featured performers include: Courtney Noble, the winner of this year’s Grand Opera Aria Competition, who will be sharing the role of Dido with Marlo Karakas, the Conservatory’s vocal Spark to Flame audition winner. Lauren Abhirosh, winner of the Junior Classical Voice (Provincial & National) as well as the Outstanding Singer Award at the Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival in 2025 and 2026, will be singing Belinda. The role will be shared with Van Hall scholarship winner Laelia Greenaway. English Art Song Competition winner Judy Roberts will be singing the Sorceress.
The orchestra will be composed of seasoned Symphony professionals with Piano department head, Robert Holliston, on harpsichord and piano; String department head, Brian Yoon on cello, Cory Balzer and Emma Reader-Lee on violins; Associate Dean, David Visentin, on viola. The chorus is comprised of talented vocalists from the Conservatory.
The opera will be directed by Ballet Victoria founder, Jacqueline Sloan and conducted by Men Without Hats member, Sahara Sloan.
WHAT: OperaFest 2026 Dido & Aeneas
WHERE: Victoria Conservatory of Music’s Alix Goolden Performance Hall, 900 Johnson St., Victoria
WHEN: Saturday August 15, 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm
HOW MUCH: By Donation, suggested amount $20.00
LEARN MORE: https://vcm.bc.ca/event/operafest-2026-dido-aeneas/
The Victoria Conservatory of Music gratefully acknowledges the support of NRS Foundation and Richard Margison Fund.
