The Dallas Opera has announced the 18 semi-finalists for the second annual Biennial Lone Star Vocal Competition.

Presented by The Dallas Opera Guild and co-chaired by Jana and Mac Irwin, the competition will be held on March 31, 2023 and supports emerging Texan singers with cash prizes and a performance in the Winspear Stage, with audience members able to choose the winner of the “People’s Choice” award.

Semi-finalists include sopranos Adia Evans, Sophia Formella, Rebecca Germany, Kristen Marie Gillis, Mariah Graves, Bethany Jelinek, Celeste Morales, Janell Cherie, and Lisl Wangermann; mezzo-sopranos Caroline Lee, Talin Nalbandian, Sarah Neal, Carlyle Quinn, and Riley Vagis; tenors Chance Jonas-O’Toole and Eric Laine; and bass-baritones Jacob Hanes and Jose Olivares.

The panel is comprised of TDO Artistic Consultant David Lomeli and General Director/CEO Ian Derrer, baritone Donnie Ray Albert, Hart Institute Conductor Elizabeth Askren, and TDO Director of Education Kristian Roberts. The competition will be emceed by tenor David Portillo, a past winner and cast member of the company’s upcoming production of “Cosi fan tutte.”