Opera Camp Has Students Singing Its Praises

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Ask any parent and they'll tell you summer camps can be hit or miss.

But, as Mike Schuh reports, there is one camp downtown that consistently has students singing its praises.

In order to be backstage at the Lyric, you need to be a pro at the top of your craft...or in high school with a voice that can fill a rehearsal space or the Lyric Opera House.

"I think my favorite part is the people here. I love how everyone here---everyone here is my kind of people, if that makes sense," said Grace Tyson. "We're choir nerds."

They're also a group of kids aware of their vocal gifts who have an idea about their futures.

The students have spent the summer writing and rehearsing.

Jim Harp, the opera's artistic director, is clearly having a great time---and this is only happening because he wants to plant the seeds to grow future opera stars.

"They're so deserving. You listen to them, you see their passion, you see their talent. They deserve an opportunity and I'm absolutely committed to providing this stage to them for their artistry, for their expression," Harp said.

The opera written and performed by the students will be staged at the Lyric on Friday at 7---and it's free.