Triple Threat Academy (TTA) in China

FEBRUARY - JULY 2024

Two women sharing a moment on stage, one holding a microphone and the other smiling warmly, with a grand piano in the background.

With the support of the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou, this iteration of the Triple Threat Academy took place virtually from February through June 2024, concluding with a very special in-person component in July 2024.

This venture was also in partnership with the Zheng Xiaoying Opera Center, founded and led by 95 year old legendary Chinese conductor Zheng Xiaoying.

Seal of the Department of State of the United States featuring a bald eagle, olive branch, shield, and stars.
Logo of Zheng Xiaoying Opera Center featuring a red stylized mask and the center's name in English and Chinese.

Virtual Program

The virtual programs' first phase featured masters classes linking world-renowned performing artists with aspiring singers from across China, and reached over 20,000 people in China across streaming platforms.  The second phase of the program included a series of interviews with leaders from top American academic institutions (Harvard University) and arts organizations (Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center), and reached over 46,000 people.  The last phase featured a series of workshops on entrepreneurship led by Carla, and reached approximately 10,000 people across China through streaming platforms. 

Seal of the United States Consulate General in Guangzhou

In-Person Program

The in-person portion of the program included two master class lectures at Huaqiao University, a concert performance titled “For Friendship Starts with Listening- Chinese and American Singers Concert Night," a series of media interviews, and in depth discussions with the staff and musical colleagues of the Zheng Xiaoying Opera Center.  The concert was attended by Chinese government officials, local community leaders such as leaders of Xiamen University, and aspiring artists. 

Two premieres were featured in the concert, “Faith and Hope and Love” by Faye Chiao and, “Your Intention, My Affection” by Elliot Leung, both of which were commissioned by the U.S. Embassy as part of the program.  Over 10 media articles were published about the event.

Poster for TTA Academy event featuring various speakers including Carla Canales, Li Hansong, Cai Jindon, Sheila Melvin, Alicia Adams, Dinda Elliott, and Manuel Bagorro with dates and descriptions in Chinese and English. Logos of Canales Project, U.S. government, and other organizations at the top.
People at a panel discussion during the China National Symphony Orchestra Art Salon, with a large blue backdrop displaying the event name in English and Chinese characters.