Winnifred the Woebegone is just a simple swamp princess looking to win the heart of Prince Dauntless. But can she pass the impossible test Queen Aggravain has in store for her?
Once Upon A Mattress
June 20th – 28th, 2025
Many moons ago in a far-off place, Queen Aggravain decreed no couples could marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, found a bride. Princesses came from far and wide to win the hand of the prince, but none could pass the impossible tests given to them by the Queen. That is, until the “shy” swamp princess, Winnifred the Woebegone, showed up. Would she be able to pass the Sensitivity Test, marry her prince and help Lady Larken and Sir Harry to the altar? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the classic tale The Princess and the Pea provides some side-splitting shenanigans. For after all, a princess is a delicate thing.
Music by Mary Rodgers
Lyrics by Marshall Barer
Book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller and Marshall Barer
Everyone’s favourite ogre is back in the hilarious stage spectacle based on the Oscar-winning, smash hit film.
SHREK the Musical
March 5th-9th, 2025
“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek….” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand… and his name is Shrek.
Celebrating 25 Years
Silence
NUOVA Vocal Arts is thrilled to introduce Edmonton audiences to a new satirical chamber opera in June 2025!
“A not-so-pure Maiden is sent to marry a not-so-manly Lord, who is advised by a not-so-celibate Priest, and protected by a not-so-insensitive Thug in an England ruled by a King who won’t get out of bed.” (Goodreads)
An opera based on the award winning play by Moira Buffini threads beautiful melodic music, composed by Leslie Uyeda, through an imaginative libretto created by Edmonton’s own Darrin Hagen.
Our 10 Second Autobiography
There are two things we love to see: an emerging artist unleashing their passion and talent on stage, and an audience arrested by a transformative performance.
We exist so both of those things can happen.
NUOVA Vocal Arts provides world-class training to performers, while also filling our communities with unique events, unforgettable performances, and fantastic festivals.
Training
Want to Become a Future Alumni?
All the world’s a stage—but we give you the tools to step out onto it. For many of our alumni, Nuova Vocal Arts gave them the tools to transition smoothly from their insular academic life into their professional careers. Check out the variety of programs we offer for vocalists, musicians, directors, stage designers, and more.
Volunteer
Want to Get a Little More Hands-On?
Hard work deserves rewards!
As a volunteer, you get more than experience and industry knowledge. We connect you with some fun benefits and a friendly crew.
As a volunteer, you get more than experience and industry knowledge. We connect you with some fun benefits and a friendly crew.
Donate
Become a Donor
The arts enrich us. Powerful stories and moving performances teach us something about ourselves and challenge our perceptions.
Your gift brings the stage to life, and brings life to the community. Donors like you help the arts to thrive.
Blog
Want to Hear From the Pros?
Our Alumni share their insights, advice, and journeys.
Jessica Kos-Whicher writes about her most valuable lessons.
Reflections on Nuova Vocal Arts programs with Simon Chalifoux.
