Frédérique Drolet

“ My time at the Atelier lyrique was a defining moment in my singing career, and I have fond memories of it: the Atelier nourished my thirst for knowledge, for learning repertoire, for musical experiences, and for meeting new people. The weeks were filled with all kinds of projects, coaching, rehearsals, performances, workshops (there’s no time to rest at the Atelier!), pushing me to exceed my limits and sometimes discover new strengths. But the most precious gift the Atelier gave me was the confidence and assurance that I belonged in the world of opera and that I could proudly forge my own path there. ”

“  Among my most memorable opera projects, my role as Gretel in Hänsel und Gretel in 2014 remains an unforgettable experience. Discovering director Hugo Bélanger’s theatrical and highly physical approach to this grandiose musical work, playing a role that suited me perfectly, all with the National Circus School… what an extraordinary experience!

The many projects of the Opéra de Montréal’s Social Action and Education Department, in which I have collaborated as a trainer and creator since joining the Atelier, have helped shape my interest in cultural mediation and collective creation: CoOpéra, Espace transition, opera for the hearing impaired or blind, etc. Using opera and music to build bridges between people, regardless of their age or circumstances, is now a central focus of my professional life. The workshops and original performances I create all serve this purpose: bird song classes, home delivery of Poterie Opéra, Impressions végétales co-creation workshops (textile art and music), projects in schools and daycare centers, etc.

Recently, my most notable project is undoubtedly my latest creation: “Gaïa – Immersive Show – Dance, Sound, and Light,” a walking show in nature at nightfall that combines opera singing, contemporary dance, and illuminated monumental sculptures. For the first time, I wrote my own arrangements of lyrical pieces, giving the music a dreamlike and unusual atmosphere that I am very proud of! ”