Opera Carolina has announced a new partnership with AsLICo, the oldest opera contest which is entering its 74^th season.

Opera Carolina will host competitors on Dec. 17, allowing them an opportunity to win roles in “Die Zauberflöte” and also becoming a co-producer on the opera; the work will be performed with the winners in Charlotte in 2024.

“To partner with AsLiCo, and to be selected as the first destination in the United States for the AsLiCo Competition is an honor and a testament to the creativity and the artistic dedication of Opera Carolina to our Resident Company,” said James Meena, Artistic Director of Opera Carolina, in an official press statement issued by the company. “This partnership demonstrates the caliber of talent in America and the Carolinas, and I’m looking forward to seeing the young opera singers on December 17.”

There will also be pre-selection auditions in Salzburg, Avignone, Rome, Catania, Poznan, and Como. Eliminations start on Jan. 5, 2023, with the final round set for Jan. 8, 2023.

The Panel of Judges for the competition features two representatives from AsLiCo, with one member recommended by the Fondazione Teatro alla Scala and one member from the theatres belonging to OperaLombardia.

This year’s competition Section A, in addition to roles for “Die Zauberflöte,” will also seek out singers for a production of “Luisa Miller.”

Applications for the competition will be open through Dec. 6, 2022.