October 1, 2025
After a thrilling evening of vocal artistry, the Butler Opera International Competition has announced its 11 finalists who will advance to the final round and compete for over $35,000 in cash prizes on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025.
Soprano Luna Seongeun Park performs at the 2025 Butler Opera International Competition
A total of 24 contestants from around the world took the stage on September 29th for the Semi-Finals, each performing at least two arias before an esteemed panel of judges. This year's semi-finalists included:
Jiayi George Baolin, Tzvi Bat Asherah, Kristin Bilodeau, Evan Brown, Ashlyn Brown, Katerina Burton, Alec Carlson, Xijin Chen, Michael Deshield, Julia Ernst, Kim Son Jin, Gretchen Krupp, Qirong Liang, Chuanyuan Liu, Daniela Machado, Aubrey Odle, Ruoxi Peng, Luna Seongeun Park, Micah Perry, Daniel Rich, Jouelle Roberson, Cameron Rolling, Alexis Seminario, and Gabrielle Turgeon.
Mezzo Soprano Ashlyn Brown performs at the 2025 Butler Opera International Competition
Following the performances, Competition Director Tamar Sanikidze praised the caliber of this year’s participants, stating, “The selection process was incredibly difficult. Every artist who reached the Semi-Finals should consider it a significant accomplishment.”
Director Tamar Sanikidze announces the finalists at the 2025 Butler Opera International Competition
Still, only 11 could advance.
The 2025 Butler Opera International Finalists Are:
- Tzvi Bat Asherah, bass-baritone
- Katerina Burton, soprano
- Julia Ernst, soprano
- Gretchen Krupp, mezzo-soprano
- Chuanyuan Liu, countertenor
- Aubrey Odle, mezzo-soprano
- Luna Seongeun Park, soprano
- Jouelle Roberson, soprano
- Alexis Seminario, soprano
- Kim Son Jin, bass
Gabrielle Turgeon, soprano
These finalists will return to the stage on October 1st at 6:30 PM for the Final Round. Tickets are still available for what promises to be an unforgettable evening celebrating vocal excellence.