After eight editions presented as a concert, Oper’Actuel is set to expand. Chants Libres announced that from Sept. 21 to 26, 2026, the organization will launch the very first edition of its biennial festival, a full week dedicated to contemporary opera creation.

The new format will feature performances, workshops, professional showcases, conferences, discussions, public talks and auditions.

Per an official press release, Marie-Annick Béliveau, Artistic Director of Chants Libres said, “The new format of OPER’ACTUEL is designed as a space for creation, encounters and innovation, where lyric theatre and contemporary opera engage in dialogue with other artistic disciplines.”

The festival opens with “Akasha : Le souffle de l’univers,” the world premiere of an intercultural opera-dance work conceived by soprano Kripa Nageshwar and Hamsa Créations Lyriques.

Performance Date: Sept. 21, 2026

“Come Closer,” composed by Ryan Trew with a libretto by Rachel Krehm, will be performed.

Performance Date: Sept. 22, 2026

The festival will culminate with the :OPER’ACTUEL Showcase,” featuring a carte blanche performance by soprano Sarah Albu, accompanied by the Ensemble Paramirabo, conducted by Stephen Mulligan. Featuring Victoria Bernath, Jean-François Daigneault, Erin Gee, Daniela Falcon, Gabo Champagne and Marcela Lucatelli, among others, the evening will highlight the extraordinary diversity of contemporary vocal practices.

Performance Dates: Sept. 25 & 26, 2026