By Meghan Yuri Young
Photography and video by: Hyghly Alleyne and Eric Black

After embracing their most true self, opera singer, theatre-maker, and Amplified Opera co-founder, Teiya Kasahara, is on a mission to ensure the musical art form is an inclusive experience.

*June 2023 Update: The specific show, The Queen In Me, which Teiya mentions during our video interview has passed, but there are plenty of classical music events to explore in Toronto. First, watch our video to learn more about Teiya and then discover upcoming classical music events. You can also learn more about ways to experience 2SLGBTQI+ culture around the city all year on our blog.*

One colleague’s encouragement for Teiya Kasahara to just be themselves changed the trajectory of the multidisciplinary artist’s career. Beyond opening doors to new opportunities within opera, it also led to the eventual founding of Amplified Opera. Through the venture, Teiya and their team hold space for challenging and diverse voices to express themselves — on their terms.

Now You Know: “Opera is really for the people. And that’s what I want to be able to reinvigorate the industry with again, that it actually was for the people. I want to bring it back to the people.”