Found in Translation

Pacific Opera is proud to introduce Found in Translation, a new community-driven initiative supported by the Opera America Civic Practice Grant. This program reimagines opera as a platform for cultural connection, relationship-building, and reconciliation.

Found in Translation invites Indigenous Elders and newcomers to Canada to collaborate with local artists in translating classical Western art songs into their own languages. At its heart, the project centers around shared experience—using music and language as tools for healing, cultural celebration, and meaningful connection.

Launched in response to the loss of federal funding for Indigenous language programs at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, this initiative offers a new space for intergenerational dialogue, creativity, and cultural exchange. The pilot program paired singers with fluent language speakers to create and share translated songs at community events, including a private concert at the VNFC and performances through Pacific Opera’s Pop-Up Opera series.

Now expanding through partnerships with the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria and the Royal BC Museum, Found in Translation brings together Indigenous, newcomer, and settler communities. The program includes shared performances, artist collaborations, and culturally guided gatherings with staff and board members from all partner organizations.

By centering Indigenous leadership and worldviews, the project not only supports language revitalization but also encourages institutions to engage more deeply with reconciliation efforts. As the program grows through 2026, Found in Translation aims to reach wider audiences, collect meaningful data, and culminate in a final community-led celebration.

This initiative invites all of us to reflect on how music can foster belonging, amplify historically excluded voices, and reshape our understanding of what opera can be.

We’d like to thank the Victoria Native Friendship Centre and the following Elders:

• Aldeen Mason
• Genevieve Mack
• Judy Elk

And more to be added!

Found in Translation: Bridging cultures and community through song received funding from a Civic Practice Grant from OPERA America’s Opera Fund.