Watch: How London became one of the world's leading cities for Opera singers

The International Opera Awards, established in 2013 by British entrepreneur Harry Hyman and Opera magazine editor John Allison, have become a cornerstone in the global opera community.

Aiming to celebrate excellence and elevate the art form's profile, the awards recognize outstanding achievements across approximately 20 categories, including best male and female singers, directors, conductors, and opera companies.

Winners are selected by a panel of industry experts, with the Opera Magazine Readers' Award determined by public vote.

London has played a pivotal role in the awards' history. The inaugural ceremony took place at the Hilton Hotel on Park Lane in April 2013. In 2015, the event transitioned from a dinner format to a theatrical show, featuring live performances by renowned opera artists.

Subsequent ceremonies have been hosted at prestigious London venues such as the Savoy Theatre, the London Coliseum, and Sadler's Wells Theatre. These events not only honour artistic excellence but also serve as glamorous gatherings for the opera community, featuring performances from past winners and finalists.

Beyond the awards, the organization supports emerging talent through the Opera Awards Foundation, established in 2012.

The foundation provides bursaries to aspiring opera artists facing financial challenges, including singers, conductors, directors, and accompanists. Recipients have gone on to perform with leading institutions such as the Royal Opera House, English National Opera, and Glyndebourne.

While the awards have ventured internationally, with ceremonies held in Madrid's Teatro Real in 2022 and Warsaw's Teatr Wielki in 2023, London remains their spiritual home.

The city's rich operatic heritage and vibrant cultural scene continue to provide an ideal backdrop for celebrating the global opera community's achievements.

Watch our video above to find out more about London’s flourishing opera scene.