FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the dates of the program?

• Submissions Open – 28/10/2025

• Submissions Deadline – 10/02/2026

• Grant Recipients Announced – 24/03/2026

• Space to Create Due – 05/10/2026

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The program dates are flexible, but all mentorship and space to create periods will take place between 24 March and 5 October 2026.​

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What do you mean by “emerging” artists?
For the Opera Lab, we define emerging broadly. For the purpose of this program, if you have not yet had a professional opera produced by a mainstage company, you are considered an emerging artist. That means our program is open to a wide range of artists at different stages of their careers.

 

What kind of work are you looking for?
We are looking for projects that are:

• Innovative – bringing fresh ideas, forms, or approaches to the operatic stage.

• Ambitious – aiming high in emotional impact, subject matter, and creative process.

• Risk-taking – challenging expectations, pushing boundaries, and testing new possibilities.

• Audience-focused – designed to connect with diverse communities and to consider audience experience throughout development.

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We are especially interested in:

• Work from artists and makers currently underrepresented in opera.

• Projects that play with music, voice, and cross-genre textures.

• Ideas that could resonate widely and deeply with audiences.

 

Do I need an opera background to apply?
Not at all. You don’t need to have written or staged opera before. What matters is a strong track record of creating artistic experiences for audiences and a genuine interest in opera as a form. For example:

• A writer keen to explore libretti.

• A composer from another genre wanting to work with voice.

• A theatre-maker curious about incorporating operatic elements.

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Do I have to be in Melbourne to take part?
No. Although FLUXUS is Melbourne-based, The Opera Lab is designed to be flexible. Mentorship and creative development can happen either in person or via Zoom/online sessions. If your project requires in-person work, we can discuss limited support for travel and accommodation. Please note this support is only available within Australia and is very limited.

 

Do I get to choose my mentor?
We aim to match artists with mentors who best suit the project’s needs. While you can express preferences, final pairings will be decided collaboratively to ensure the best fit.

 

If I’m unsuccessful, can I apply again?
Absolutely. If your application is not successful this round, we encourage you to apply again in the future. Many artists refine their ideas over time, and persistence is part of the creative process.

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What does the program actually provide?

The Opera Lab offers successful participants at least one three-hour mentorship session with an experienced industry mentor, along with a creative framework to help bring your project to life. This includes peer connection, opportunities to observe opera rehearsals and attend professional main-stage productions, and the chance to share work in development.

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We also provide two grants of $5,000 to individual creatives or creative teams to support the development of an idea into a pitch for further progression. This may include creating written or musical drafts and excerpts. In some cases, we can also offer guidance on potential collaborators — whether fellow participants or more experienced creatives we believe may be a strong match for your project.

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How much time is required if I’m selected?
The program is designed to be flexible, but you should be prepared to dedicate regular time to development, mentorship sessions, and any scheduled workshops/showings. The due date for Space to Create outcomes will be approximately 12 weeks after the indication of success, and this will be clearly stated in your agreement.

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What if my project is collaborative?
Collaborative applications are welcome. Just be clear about roles within your team and how responsibilities will be shared.

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What rights does FLUXUS have over my work?
As Producer, FLUXUS Pty Ltd retains a first right of refusal to produce the work developed in the program. All other rights remain with you, the Creative.

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What happens after the Lab?
The Opera Lab is a development platform. While we can’t guarantee production, the program is designed to give your project the best chance of moving towards future staging opportunities.