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In Kelowna's vibrant arts scene, few voices resonate as deeply and distinctively as that of Nika Louw. Her journey, marked by an early love for opera and a seamless transition into acting, reflects a career that’s as diverse as it is inspiring.
Born and raised in Canada within a multicultural community, Nika's exposure to various cultures and languages from a young age significantly shaped her artistic development. This rich background provided her with the unique ability to adapt and thrive in different musical genres, especially opera, where language plays a pivotal role. "Growing up in such an environment really helped me, especially in singing opera in languages like Latin, Italian, and German," Nika explained, highlighting the advantages of her early cultural immersion.
Nika’s passion for music was evident early on. Despite the limited opportunities in her small hometown of Invermere, she relentlessly pursued her love for singing. Her move to Kelowna was a turning point, where she sought to take her singing ambitions to the next level. This decision led her to audition for a spot in a local opera, marking the beginning of a series of opportunities that would shape her career. "That summer I got to be in an opera. It was just an amazing experience as someone wanting to be involved in the arts," she recalled.
Her talent and dedication didn’t go unnoticed. As her skills developed, so did her interests, leading her to explore the world of acting. Kelowna’s growing film industry presented new opportunities, and soon, Nika found herself immersed in both operatic and cinematic worlds. "Acting was another thing I had a passion for, and I was lucky enough to go to Texas to film a horror movie. Using my vocal cords for screaming was quite an experience," she shared, revealing the breadth of her artistic versatility.
Today, Nika is a celebrated member of Candesca, an esteemed ensemble of women vocalists from across the Okanagan. Since joining the group in 2019, she has been part of an exciting journey that includes preparing for a landmark performance at Carnegie Hall. "It’s been an amazing journey so far, and the fact that we’re actually going to be there still feels a bit surreal," Nika expressed, her excitement palpable.
Candesca is not only a platform for performing classical pieces but also a community that explores contemporary and early music, enriching the cultural fabric of Kelowna. This year, they celebrate their 23rd season and are gearing up for their 12th international tour, which includes their first performance on the prestigious Carnegie Hall stage as well as a concert at St. John the Divine, the largest gothic cathedral in North America.
As Nika continues to evolve as a singer and actress, her story is a testament to the power of community, dedication, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. Her journey from a small Canadian town to the stages of New York is not just about personal achievement but about the impact of nurturing local talent that can resonate on a global stage.
For those inspired by Nika's story and looking to experience the magic of Candesca's music, their upcoming performance at the Cathedral Church for All Angels on Sutherland in Kelowna promise to be a remarkable showcase of talent and passion. To secure your seats and witness this extraordinary ensemble in action, click here for tickets.
Join the local and international community in supporting Kelowna’s voices as they make their mark on the world stage.
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