Nancy Henninger

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Wherever Dramatic Soprano Nancy Henninger performs, be it throughout Europe, or at home in the United States, critics and press are unanimous. Acclaimed singing actress Nancy Henninger brings all of her roles - whether dramatic or comic - vividly to life, transporting her audiences into each scenario.

Nancy Henninger was born and grew up in Chicago. After graduating from North Central College, she went on to receive a Masters of Music in Voice from the American Conservatory of Music. During her studies in Chicago, Nancy won many prestigious awards in singing: 2nd place in the Metropolitan Opera auditions, Farwell Award, NATS finalist, & the American Opera Society $1,000.00 award. In 1986, Nancy was awarded The Outstanding Alumni Award from NCC for her significant contribution to the advancement of the arts. Nancy sang for the world famous conductor, Guiseppi Patané, who recommended she audition in Germany. After a successful audition tour, Nancy began a contract with the Augsburg, Germany Opera Company. Nancy sang and taught in Germany for over 27 years.

Ms Henninger sang in over 25 European theaters and made guest appearances in over 20 Opera Companies throughout Europe. A very special bond exists between her and Composer Gian Carlo Menotti. Ms Henninger first met Menotti in Enschede, Holland where she sang the title role in his opera inMaria Golov. Through their successful work together, Menotti and Ms Henninger were asked to perform Menotti's The Consul in Giessen, Germany. After their success, Menotti invited Nancy to sing the title role in Shostakovich's Lady Macbeth from Mtsensk at his Festival dei due Mondi in Spoleto, Italy. Mr. Menotti described her as “an artist of great stature, an excellent vocalist, and an extremely gifted actress who gave an exemplary performance that was inspiring and unforgettable”.

Ms Henninger is a sought after voice teacher and vocal coach. Nancy presently teaches adjunct voice at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb & Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin and maintains a private voice studio in Chicago.

Nancy is Founder and Artistic Director of Intimate Opera, Inc. IO provides a performing opportunity for young opera singers and affordable opera for the communities of the greater Chicago area. Intimate Opera has performed the operas, Carmen, La Boheme, Die Fledermaus, Butterfly, Amahl & the Night Visitors, Suor Angelica, Pagliacci, Rigoletto and La Traviata. Nancy and IO have created a new showcase for these young singers called, Starry, Starry Serenade. The young stars of IO perform selections from your favorite Operas, Operettas and Music Theater. In May, they will perform Cosi fan tutti in Naperville. Check their website for further details (www.IntimateOperaChicago.com).


Last Modified Wednesday, October 8, 2008