The Cascais Ópera – Concurso Internacional de Canto has officially opened applications for its 3rd edition, inviting young opera singers from around the world to participate in one of Portugal’s most dynamic and career-focused lyric-arts competitions.
Prizes include monetary awards, performance engagements, and ongoing career mentorship, reinforcing the competition’s mission to launch the next generation of opera professionals.
Cascais Ópera provides a comprehensive development platform where contestants work closely with renowned vocal coaches, conductors, and opera directors through masterclasses, rehearsals, and artistic coaching sessions. Finalists perform before a live audience in Cascais and have the opportunity to showcase their talent to casting directors, agents, and representatives from major European opera houses.
“Our goal is to create a truly transformative experience for young singers,” said Maria João Sousa, Artistic Director of Cascais Ópera. “We want participants to leave not only with recognition but with real artistic growth and concrete opportunities for their careers.”
Applications for the 2026 edition must be submitted online through the official competition website at www.cascaisopera.com. Candidates must upload a CV, headshot, and video recordings of two arias according to the competition rules.
A non-refundable application fee is required upon submission. The complete regulations and repertoire guidelines are also available on the website under the “Regulation” page, where applicants will find the full rules for the 2026 edition.
The application deadline is January 15, 2026. All materials, including videos and payment, must be received by this date to be considered. The competition is open to young lyrical singers of all nationalities, particularly conservatory students, recent graduates, and emerging artists seeking international exposure.
“Cascais is proud to welcome artists from across the globe,” said João Pereira, Councillor for Culture of the Municipality of Cascais. “This competition strengthens our commitment to the arts and helps position Cascais as an international home for opera and musical excellence.”
With Cascais increasingly recognized as a cultural hub in Portugal, this competition contributes to placing the region firmly on the global operatic map while offering young artists a vital platform for entering the professional world. Organizers encourage talented singers worldwide to submit their applications for this growing international showcase of artistic excellence.
PAJ/Staff
