Finding Your Story
Every opera begins with an idea.
Sometimes it's a character. Sometimes it's an image, a question or a single dramatic moment. However it starts, the strongest proposals are not usually the most complicated. They're the ones that immediately make us want to know what happens next.
We're looking for stories that excite our cast, engage our audiences and give young performers the chance to create something extraordinary together.
Start with the Story
When we read a proposal, the first thing we're looking for isn't the music.
It's the story.
A unique idea that immediately makes us lean forward and want to read the next page.
The strongest pitches have a clear dramatic arc, memorable characters and a world that feels exciting to step into. We should be able to imagine our cast bringing it to life long before a single note of music has been written.
Think Like a Theatre-Maker
The best London Youth Opera stories are theatrical.
They're written to be performed, not simply told.
Rather than teaching a lesson or explaining a message, they invite our young performers to enter another world, take risks, surprise audiences, move them and make them laugh.
The themes can be serious, but the story-telling should always come first.
Writing for the Company
When you're developing your story, think about the company as a whole.
Our operas are written for around 50–80 performers aged 9–18. There is space for solo arias, but the bulk should be duets, smaller ensembles, large tutti moments.
The opening and closing scenes should bring the full cast together, while the rest of the opera gives different groups and individuals cast members opportunities to shine.
Pitching for the Right Age
One of the most common pitfalls is pitching the story at the wrong age.
We ask that writers pitch the storyline for our oldest performers (16-18) while creating moments that excite all members of the company. Remember some of the themes should be appropriate for our youngest cast members (9-11).
Never underestimate young performers.
Inspire them, and they will inspire you.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- 01
Would a young performer be excited to play one of these characters?
- 02
Does every major scene move the story forwards?
- 03
Is the world theatrical and imaginative?
- 04
Could the opera be told in around one hour?
- 05
Will children and adults both leave thinking about its themes?
From the Rehearsal Room
When the room changes
One of our favourite moments each year is revealing the new commission to the cast at our annual picnic. Within minutes they're casting themselves, choosing favourite characters and imagining costumes. Before a note of music has been rehearsed, they're already living inside the world the writers have created.