Her name is Elizabeth Lewis Celeste and artistic director with VIO, Tatiana Vasilieva, said she chose her from a group of about 30 talented singers.
“She has sung with many distinguished opera companies and in vocal competitions and she has extensive experience in operatic and vocal repertoire,” she said.
The recital takes place at the McMillan Arts Centre at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 3.
Celeste is a dual citizen of Canada and the United Kingdom and has performed with orchestras and opera companies in both places.
Last year, Celeste participated as part of the UBC Opera Ensemble and sang the role of Fiordiligi in Cosi fan Tutte, in concert in the Czech Republic this summer.
In Parksville, she will sing an eclectic mix of classical art songs, operatic arias and musicals by Puccini, Debussy, Verdi, Gershwin, and Wright, accompanied by pianist Nikolai Maloff.
“It will be a very varied and interesting program,” said Vasilieva. “Not too many singers sing like this so I am excited to hear her and to present her.”
Vasilieva said the last recital in Parksville in February was a smashing success with a full house and standing ovations from the crowd. She wanted to thank her loyal public.
“All this reception gives me the energy and the purpose to continue working hard to bring these excellent performances to the Island.”
Tickets for the show are $15 at the door and include baking from VIO members, cheese and meats from Quality Foods and some refreshments. There will also be a $2 raffle to win QF gift cards. For more information on VIO visit www.vancouverislandopera.com.
