If Opera Festival 2026
06 - 16 August

Church Farm, Wingfield

Beautiful music in extraordinary places

In 2026, we celebrate 30 incredible years! To mark this milestone, we will be welcoming back some of the artists who helped shape our story to present a season that’s as daring, heartfelt and joyful as ever.

Since our first production of Cosi fan tutte in 1996, the magic of opera has unfolded in the most intimate of settings, thanks to the dedication of extraordinary artists and creatives and the support of our Patrons and audiences, and we look forward to sharing more of the magic with you.

Bizet’s Carmen, long considered too ambitious for the tiny Cloister at Iford Manor, finally takes centre stage in a powerful new in-the-round production directed by James Hurley. From its scandalous 1875 premiere to its status as a timeless masterpiece, Bizet’s seductive score pulsates with passion and jealousy, full to the brim with unforgettable melodies and Spanish fire.

Georges Bizet
06 | 08 | 12 | 15 August

Carmen

We are thrilled to welcome back Jeff Clarke and the brilliant Opera della Luna, supremos of comic opera, for a brand-new production of The Chocolate Soldier by the Viennese master of cabaret, Oscar Straus. His operetta, based on George Bernard Shaw’s Arms and the Man, is full of charm, wit and warmth - delivered with Opera della Luna’s signature sparkle and inventiveness.

Oscar Straus
11 | 13 | 14 August

The Chocolate Soldier

Turn back the clock to Baroque-era Europe and enjoy a soul-warming tipple of musical entertainment from the award-winning Vache Baroque. From gods to lowly humans, royalty to revellers, come together for an evening of cellar-inspired drinking songs, jigs, shanties and singalongs from the Baroque masters including Purcell, Handel, Cozzolani and Jenkins. Raise a glass to this squiffy musical output alongside Thomas Guthrie (Lucia di Lammermoor, 2024) and the minstrels of Vache Baroque Band for a unique evening of raucous ribaldry.

Vache Baroque
07 August

Baroque Drinking Songs

“One of the UK’s hottest groups”

Opera Today

“An exceptional evening”

★★★★ The Observer

“Witty, risky, and immersive”

★★★★★ Opera Now

GET INTO OPERA!
A Carmen Family Fiesta Day

Step into a world of colour, rhythm, and big tunes as Carmen bursts into town! Join a hands-on opera adventure for the whole family. Take part in a singing workshop and learn the famous Toreador chorus, culminating in a ‘potted performance’ with professional opera singers. Make your own Carmen inspired props, explore the garden trail, and meet unforgettable characters. Take a break at our Spanish-inspired pop-up food experience - or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the gardens with Teddy and Jimmy, the resident donkeys! This relaxed, free-flowing day invites children and grown-ups, to dip in and out of activities, sing, and explore the magic of opera together.

09 August

The Art of Baroque: Masterclass and Concert

Join us for a delightful and inspiring few hours in the company of Christian Curnyn, widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading Baroque specialists, for a rare opportunity to observe a master at work. This open masterclass offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process as ideas take shape and young singers, selected from our repertory ensemble, develop and grow in real time.

Christian Curnyn
13 August

Bringing our 30th anniversary celebrations to a joyful close, our Final Fling Picnic Prom promises an unforgettable evening of music and merriment. Join us as we celebrate the Golden Age of swing and jazz with the legendary Syd Lawrence Orchestra and the irresistible Marvin Muoneké Quartet.