Sample Text

Our story

The Kitchen Youth Opera company was developed in 2015 by Deborah Gjeloshaj. It is open to all talented singers between the ages of 9 and 18 who are interested in developing their voices in a more classical way than the mainstream performing arts schools.

The skills involved in performing in an opera are skills that increase confidence and self-esteem. It helps childrens’ ability to perform and speak clearly in front of others and to work as part of a team. Singers not only have to sing as part of the chorus, often in four parts, they also learn solos, duets, trios and quartets.

The company currently presents one high quality production each year. Auditions are held around 4 months prior to the event and a cast of no more that 18-20 are chosen. A mixture of ages is essential for creating a fabulous learning atmosphere and individual attention. Boys and girls are auditioned on an equal basis, although boys whose voices who have broken are in high demand!

There are eight rehearsals, normally held on Friday evenings between 7:30pm and 9pm at Deborah's Sevenoaks studio and Saturday afternoons between 3pm and 5.30pm in a more formal theatre setting. There are occasional weekend breaks allowing children more freedom than an every weekend rehearsal schedule. Singers who have participated in Kitchen Opera productions have gone on to study at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Oxford and Cambridge.

October Half Term 2024 Classical Vocal & Performance Workshop

Join us for up to 3 days of an unforgettable workshop designed for young people eager to learn the art of singing and performing.

We will work on a fun selection of well-known classical and operatic pieces. Open to all musical abilities and experience, so whether you're a seasoned performer or simply looking to boost your confidence and have fun, our Kitchen Youth Opera Workshop offers professional coaching in a supportive and exciting environment.

What to Expect:

Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced vocal coaches and performers.
Performance Skills: Master the art of stage presence and expressiveness.
Confidence Building: Develop self-assurance through music and performance.
Fun Activities: Enjoy engaging and interactive sessions with fellow young enthusiasts.

Unlock your potential, make new friends, and experience the joy of opera! Spaces are limited, so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to shine on stage.

Tickets are available for a full week pass here, day passes also available here.

Our 2025 Performance

For 2025 we will be performing a modern interpretation of Kurt Weill's "Down In The Valley". We will be teaming with a knife crime charity as the synopsis is completely relevant to the current day issues we face within our communities with knife crime. The story is compelling and dramatic and the music divine. We'd love to hear from anyone who'd like to audition, please click on the button below to register.

Performance dates March 15th and 16th 2025 at the Stag Theatre Sevenoaks.

We have had very generous help from some private individuals in the past, however this will be the first performance where we are trying to raise sponsorship, and we have set a target of £10,000 to cover the costs of using a professional venue, additional professional support in rehearsals and help with props and costumes.

We'll have more details available once we gauge the level of sponsorship which may be available to us.

Click Here To Register Interest for Next Show

Information for Parents & Guardians

Kitchen Youth Opera seeks to provide an engaging and safe experience for the cast. Deborah holds a Level 3 (DSL)safeguarding competency qualification, and manages our safeguarding policies which can be found here

Operas Performed