The winners of the inaugural OperaChaser Critics Awards (OCCAs) were announced in Melbourne on Wednesday night, 4 February.

Established by Melbourne-based opera critic (and Limelight contributor) Paul Selar, the awards recognise outstanding artistry, interpretation and professional commitment across the sector. Winners across 11 categories were decided by a panel of six experienced critics.

Emily Edmonds, Antoinette Halloran, Michael Petruccelli and Desiree Frahn. Photo © Jeff Busby

Victorian Opera’s production of Katya Kabanova emerged as the standout of the year, taking the OCCA for Outstanding Production from a field of 25 eligible productions spanning major companies, independents and professionally mentored programs for emerging artists.

The Janáček opera also collected two further awards, with Adelaide-based soprano Desiree Frahn named Outstanding Female in a Leading Role for her portrayal of Katya, and Niklas Pajanti winning Outstanding Lighting Designer.

Victorian Opera collected another award for Abduction, with Europe-based Australian bass Luke Stoker recognised as Outstanding Male in a Supporting Role for his Osmin.

Directorial honours went to Yaron Lifschitz for Orpheus & Eurydice, a collaboration between Opera Queensland...