History:

Opera in the Ozarks at Inspiration Point is a unique festival founded by Dr. Henry Hobart in 1950. Affiliated with the National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC), Opera in the Ozarks has earned the reputation of being a prominent training program for all singers interested in pursuing a career in opera. One of the outstanding features of the program is that every participant is afforded an opportunity to perform in fully produced operas, an evening scenes program or an educational outreach program taken to the several areas in Northwest Arkansas. Four weeks of rehearsal and four weeks of performances are under the supervision of a professional staff.

Not only have Opera in the Ozarks alumni appeared in all of the major performing venues of the world, many outstanding teachers, conductors, directors, composers, and singers have given masterclasses each summer during the season. Also, nearly $2,000 in prizes for outstanding achievement during the season are awarded and a special NFMC "Past President's Scholarship" for continued study will be awarded to worthy participants at the end of the season. The tuition of $3,500 includes participation in the opera productions, educational program, opera scenes program, acting and diction instruction, movement classes, stage combat classes, master classes, one on one coaching, plus room and board. Opera in the Ozarks provides extensive performance opportunities to singers pursuing the goal of a professional career in opera.