In the dynamic realm of opera education, collaboration serves as a cornerstone for fostering artistic growth and enriching student experiences. This principle is vividly embodied in the partnership between Dr. Helen Sohyun Park, Lecturer and Opera Stage Director at the School of Music, CUHK-Shenzhen, and Mr. Paul J. Tines, Founding Arts Director of Benenden Bilingual School Guangzhou (BBSG). Their collaboration began in November 2024, when Dr. Park invited Mr. Tines to the School of Music to conduct an Acting Masterclass for her Advanced Opera Workshop students. Drawing on his extensive expertise in the performing arts, Mr. Tines provided invaluable insights into character development and stage presence, deepening the students' theatrical understanding and elevating their performances.

Acting Masterclass for Advanced Opera Workshop at the School of Music, CUHK-Shenzhen by Mr. Paul J Tines

This partnership flourished in April 2025, when Mr. Tines organized an Opera Gala Concert at BBSG. The event featured First-year postgraduate students majoring in Opera & Voice Studies from the School of Music, CUHK-Shenzhen, who performed a diverse repertoire of opera pieces for children aged 6 to 12. The young attendees were spellbound by the live performances, which not only showcased the students' vocal prowess but also ignited a newfound appreciation for opera among the next generation.

Opera Gala Concert at BBCG by First-year postgraduate students majoring in Opera & Voice Studies with Mr. Yuan Fangqixiong (Coach/Pianist)

The seeds of this collaboration were sown in August 2024, when Dr. Park, Mr. Tines, and Li Arvid, Director of the Development Office at the School, first convened at BBSG to envision these initiatives. The resounding success of these events has laid a strong foundation for future joint endeavors, promising even greater opportunities for artistic exchange and student development. As this partnership continues to evolve, there is palpable excitement about expanding collaborative efforts to nurture a shared passion for music and opera. These initiatives underscore the transformative power of collaboration in education, and the future of this alliance in opera education shines brightly.

Group Photo of Opera Gala Concert