SHARJAH, UAE — 20 November 2025
Liza Balkan, MFA, Lead Tutor in Acting at the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA), has returned to the Academy following a highly successful period of professional work in Canada, where she directed a double bill of operas.
The performances, held on 7 and 8 November, featured Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Telephone and the premiere staging of Dean Burry’s Radio/Drama/Opera, Baby Kintyre, a new work inspired by an event that took place in 2007. Both productions were met with strong acclaim, with young artists collaborating beautifully and elevating their professional-level practice throughout the process.
Reflecting on the experience, Balkan expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to return to Canada and re-engage in one of her much-loved professional practices. Directing the productions provided meaningful insight into her strengths, as well as areas for continued growth as a director.
While abroad, she also attended part of a conference on Voice and Neuroscience, led by renowned opera star Renée Fleming.
Photo Credit: Gaetz Photography