A critically acclaimed mezzo-soprano of Kwagiulth and Stó:lō First Nations with English, Irish and Scottish heritage, Marion Newman was born in Bella Coola and grew up in Sooke, BC. She is one of Canada’s most accomplished singers in repertoire from Charpentier to Cusson.Nominated for a Dora Award for her leading role in the world premiere of Shanawdithit (Nolan/Burry) with Toronto’s Tapestry Opera, Ian Ritchie wrote “she invests her character with towering dignity and courage”.
Concert Highlights for the 2023/24 season include the premiere of “Songs from the House of Death” (Cusson) with Regina Symphony and Beethoven’s Ninth with Symphony Nova Scotia. With Opera Kelowna, Marion performs with soprano Melody Courage in “Wreckonciliation”, approaching classical opera works through an Indigenous lens.
Recently, Marion created the role of Dawn in the world premiere of Migrations with Welsh National Opera. In 2024, Marion stars in Missy Mazzoli’s “Song from the Uproar” with City Opera Vancouver and curates a concert with Musica Intima. Upcoming new works include Mimi in Indians on Vacation, an operatic adaptation of the novel by Thomas King (Cusson/Vavrek) with Against the Grain Theatre.
A driving force for truth and reconciliation within the context of classical music and host of CBC’s Saturday Afternoon at the Opera, Marion brings her talented and inspiring colleagues to the attention of listeners across Canada and beyond.
