Announcing the 2026 Wesfarmers Arts Young Artists

The 2026 Young Artists are Michelle Pryor (soprano), Belinda Butler (mezzo-soprano), Vin Trikeriotis (tenor), Devon Lake (baritone) and Bayden Adams (conductor).

Through the Wesfarmers Arts Young Artist Program, West Australian Opera is creating professional pathways and nurturing the next generation of opera talent.

The Wesfarmers Young Artists receive mentoring, coaching, performance experience and the opportunity to participate in masterclasses. The Program aims to develop technical skills and stagecraft in preparation for a career in opera.

Wesfarmers Arts Young Artists are generously supported by Wesfarmers, the Bendat Family Foundation through the Bendat Scholarship, the Roberts Emerging Artist Program, and individual donors.  Young Artist alumni have built careers on opera stages locally, nationally and internationally.

“This successful program identifies the brightest stars and next generation of Western Australian artists. Wesfarmers are proud to support our young artists and are committed to ensuring they are nurtured, mentored and given the best opportunity to have thriving professional careers.” – Helen Carroll, Wesfarmers Arts Manager

Australian soprano Emma Matthews AM is the program’s patron. ,Emma has received more Helpmann Awards than any other individual artist and is current Head of Classical Voice at West Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). Emma brings her  performance experience and knowledge to mentor the group.

“I am proud to be the Patron of the Wesfarmers Arts Young Artist Program. Working with the extraordinary talent of these young artists is both a pleasure and a privilege. Programs such as these are integral for supporting artists to further their craft and provide them with the tools to navigate the industry. The skills I learnt through my time within a young artist program assisted me greatly in my career as a Principal Artist and I am thrilled to be able to share this opportunity with the next generation” – Emma Matthews AM.

The Young Artists work closely with WAO Artistic Director, Chris van Tuinen.

“WAO is committed to supporting artists at all stages of their careers but especially as they make the transition from full time study to full time performing. It’s during this period that a Young Artist Program can be most valuable, providing on the job training, mentoring, coaching, and most important, firsthand experience at the craft of a professional opera artist. This unique experience, both on and off the stage wouldn’t be possible without our supporters, mentors, and staff so to them our thanks.” – Chris van Tuinen.For more information on each of the 2026 Young Artists visit waopera.asn.au

MEDIA CONTACT:
Daniele Foti-Cuzzola, West Australian Opera, Media Consultant
E: [email protected]
M: +614 343 548 67