Summer Intensive Program: Cabaret
July 20-25, 2026
This intensive non-auditioned workshop is designed for adult singers with an interest in cabaret performance and music theatre, as well as for classical singers interested in developing crossover technique and repertoire. Some previous vocal training and performing experience is an asset but is not compulsory.
Limited to 20 singers; early application is advised. Repertoire suggestions and scores will be sent to participants in advance of the program. Each singer will prepare two songs—up-tempo and ballad—to perform in class and at the final concert.
This intensive encompasses daily masterclasses, lessons with faculty, classes in acting and performance practice, and a performance to conclude the week.
New Voices of Cabaret
Start with a story, a character, and a gorgeous melody, add a splash of jazz, stir in some wit, and sprinkle in a little satire — that’s the art of Cabaret!
Cabaret has changed over the years but it’s still an important part of music theatre! Join us to discover the new songwriters and theatre composers that have contributed to the cabaret repertoire in the last 35 years.
From the intimate songs of Jason Robert Brown (Songs for a New World), Adam Gwon (Ordinary Days), and Goldrich & Heisler (Taylor the Latte Boy) to the new musical theatre creations of Jeanine Tesori (Shrek, Thoroughly Modern Millie), Pasek & Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, A Christmas Story), Flaherty & Ahrens (Ragtime), Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Newsies) and many more, there is something for everyone in the modern era of cabaret!
Spend a week with the faculty of professional singers, actors, and cabaret performers to create a show that spotlights the art of the singing actor. Each day includes private voice coaching, group workshops, acting class, and show rehearsals. All are welcome – no audition required.
The faculty brings a wealth of experience in a wide range of genres, from Broadway to cabaret and commercial recording, and will work with the singers individually and in masterclass to develop their confidence and polish their performance as singing actors.
Faculty will include Noreen Smith, voice coach and Speech Level Singing specialist who has coached recording artists/labels, pop/rock/metal singers, and voice-over actors in addition to musical theatre performers and has garnered five nominations and two national-level awards for musical direction. Brenda Morie, jazz vocalist and recording artist who has been heard on movie soundtracks and television commercials and toured with pop artists such as Nancy Sinatra, returns to our faculty along with Kim Greenwood, local jazz singer and soloist with the Commodores Big Band. New to the program this year is Brandi Varnell, a New York-trained actor/singer who will bring her vast experience to the acting/performance classes.
Adult pianists with an interest in jazz and music theatre and experienced in collaborative work with singers are also welcome to participate in the course, but due to the complexity of the repertoire, pianists are asked to submit an audition video for acceptance into the program. Please contact the Artistic Director, Nancy Curry, at nancy.curry.vcm[at]gmail.com for more information.
Early Bird registration deadline: Extended to June 15, 2026
Final registration and bursary application deadline: June 30, 2026
Learn more
How to Register
Online registration requires payment in full. Payment by credit card will incur a 3.23% convenience fee. If you do not wish to incur this fee, please contact our office for other payment methods.
Pianists: Please submit an audition video for acceptance into the program. For more information about the audition requirements, please contact the Artistic Director, Nancy Curry, at nancy.curry.vcm[at]gmail.com.
Fees and Deadlines
Early Bird Fee: $645 + $33 application fee and Library Resource Fee*
After May 15, 2026: $705 + $55 application fee and Library Resource Fee*
Early Bird registration deadline: Extended to June 15, 2026
Final registration and bursary application deadline: June 30, 2026
*A 1% Library Resource Fee is added to all Community School registrations to support the Victoria Conservatory Music Library and Archives, which is free to all students and the public. The library is in Room 113 and available online.
*Pianists: A 1% Course Resource Fee is added to all Community School piano lessons and piano class registrations to support the tuning, maintenance, repair, and refurbishment of the pianos and keyboards.
Some bursary assistance may be available. Applicants must comply with all deadlines and requirements. Late applicants will not be considered for financial assistance.
Dates and Daily Schedule
Program start: Monday, July 20 | 10:00am
Program end: Saturday, July 25 | 5:30pm
Sessions run daily from 10:00am to 5:30pm, with breaks throughout the day, in the Robin & Winifred Wood Recital Hall. The class will present the Victoria Conservatory of Music Cabaret performance on Saturday.
Workshop Audit
Workshops are open to the public. More information and registration will become available closer to the program start date. (If you are already enrolled in this year’s Cabaret Intensive, the workshops are included in your tuition.)
More information regarding workshop details and registration to come!
Location
All programs will take place onsite at the Victoria Conservatory of Music (900 Johnson Street) in downtown Victoria. There are many cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores within walking distance.
Faculty
Nancy Curry, Artistic Director; Vocal Coaching
Kim Greenwood, Vocal Coaching
Brenda Morie, Vocal Coaching
Noreen Smith, Vocal Coaching
Brandi Varnell, Acting/Performance
Faculty subject to change.
Concerts
Final Concert:
Saturday, July 25, 7:00pm | Wood Hall
By donation
The Fine Print
Please note: all fees must be paid in full by the registration deadline (excluding those waiting on the result of their bursary application).
Online registration requires payment in full. Payment by credit card will incur a convenience fee. If you do not wish to incur this fee, please contact our office for other payment methods.
Those awaiting acceptance (where applicable) or the results of their bursary application are encouraged to contact us directly to register.
Contact
Victoria Conservatory of Music Front Desk
250.386.5311 | info[at]vcm.bc.ca
Nancy Curry, Artistic Director
nancy.curry.vcm[at]gmail.com