YAPs

a new DOCUMENTARY FILM

Directed by Miriam Gordon-Stewart

Widespread closures threaten the very existence of live theater in America. A traditional career as an opera singer seems less and less viable.

And yet: In spite of a system stacked against them, young singers continue to follow their calling, risking everything to gain entry into fiercely competitive apprenticeship programs.

In VHO’s new documentary film, an open casting call has found some of the nation’s most compelling Young Artists, sharing their true stories with unprecedented access. What is driving their ambition? Who will “make it”? And what does success even mean to the next generation?


After multiple rounds of a nationwide casting call for young singers to be featured in the film, we are excited to announce the cast of YAPs!

Meet the cast in this short clip below: Ria Ipa (mezzo-soprano), Matteo Adams (tenor), Marissa Howard (soprano), Chuanyuan Liu (countertenor) and Amandalynne Perzyk (soprano).