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-theround 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 also 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.