Layla Bunch is a talented young opera singer and the recipient of the prestigious Virginia E. Hayes Williams Opera Prize, awarded $25,000. Funded by the Eugene B. Casey Foundation, this prize honors Virginia Elizabeth Hayes Williams, a professional singer turned postal worker who later became known as the city’s “first mother” through her musical contributions. It is one of the highest honors given to students at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Thanks to this award, Layla will further her opera training in Italy this summer.
A member of DESA’s Concert Choir and the Show Choir Voices in Motion, Layla has already built an impressive resume. She has performed in notable roles at the Children’s Theatre of Annapolis, including a Mersister in The Little Mermaid, Grandma in The Addams Family, and Grace in Annie. Her talents extend to the screen as well, with a featured role as Farah in Orange Is the New Black. Additionally, she has showcased her skills on stage with the Kelsey Collie Children’s Theater and the ILead Institute in The Lion King.
She will perform:
“Rise Up” (Andra Day): A Hymn to Resilience and Solidarity.
“Space Between” (Descendants): Themes of Friendship, Loyalty, and Identity.