Opera Quest is a creative force—an incubator for the next generation of Canadian opera artists. This summer, it returns with the world premiere of JÉHANNE, a bold new operatic work by Colin Doroschuk, debuting June 27 in the Alix Goolden Performance Hall. At the heart of this powerful Canadian creation is mezzo-soprano mezzo-soprano Jessica Lyublinsky, one of the rising voices shaping opera’s next chapter.
“Opera Quest is an arts incubator where top Canadian emerging artists create a new work drawing on the creative lenses of a variety of artistic disciplines and genres,” says Tricia Baldwin, newly appointed Dean of the Victoria Conservatory of Music. “The greatest creativity right now is that happening between different genres and cultures, and the Victoria Conservatory’s Colin Doroschuk is paving the way for a new and unique immersive model of collaborative creativity filled with the immediacy, urgency, and the exceptional gifts of extraordinary Canadian artists.”
From its mentorship-based approach to its all-Canadian cast and creative team, Opera Quest is blazing a trail for innovative, cross-genre operatic storytelling—right here in Victoria.
About Jessica Lyublinsky
Born with a deep love of opera—and a childhood soundtrack of Mozart and Rossini—Jessica is the kind of artist Opera Quest was designed to nurture: passionate, forward-thinking, and proudly Canadian. From early training with the Institute for Young Dramatic Voices to performances with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Glenn Gould School, her artistic journey bridges the classical canon and the evolving world of new opera.
When she discovered Opera Quest and its commitment to Canadian stories and voices, Jessica was immediately drawn in:
“Finding a program that is new, explores up and coming talent, and is distinctly Canadian is exactly what we as Canadian musicians should be engaging in—all while celebrating Canadian talent, composers, musicians, performers.”
Jessica’s work is informed by a deep respect for tradition—Wagner, Verdi, Strauss—but also a fearless embrace of what opera can become. In JÉHANNE, she’ll take on a role (or several) still being developed, as part of an intensive two-week creation process that places Canadian talent at the forefront of innovation.
“One of my favorite operas, and dream roles, is Joan from Tchaikovsky’s Maid of Orleans. Having the opportunity to explore one of my favourite historical figures through a Canadian lens, and connect with other Canadian creatives, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Her performance credits speak for themselves:
- European debut in Suor Angelica (Italy, 2023)
- Winner of the Pittsburgh Laffont Metropolitan Opera Competition (2024)
- Solo debut with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (2025)
- Glenn Gould School graduate, full scholarship (2020–2024)
- Future student at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music on full scholarship and stipend
Opera Quest is not just developing performers—it’s cultivating a future for Canadian opera that is inclusive, innovative, and artist-led.
“Opera is for everyone, and this production reflects that. JÉHANNE is a chance to support the next generation of Canadian creators and to witness the birth of something truly new.”
And just for fun? Before she took to the opera stage, Jessica was a competitive ballroom dancer.
Experience the premiere of JÉHANNE on June 27, 2025
Live at the iconic Alix Goolden Performance Hall (entrance at 900 Johnson Street) in Victoria, BC.
This opportunity is made possible by the generous support of RBC Foundation and NRS Foundation.
