In just two weeks, the magic of live opera will once again sweep through the Blackwater Valley, marking the highly anticipated return of Blackwater Valley Opera Festival.
From 27th May to 2nd June, over 5,000 guests are expected to enjoy an unforgettable week-long celebration of music, culture, and exceptional food in beautiful surroundings.
For the first time, the festival will present two full opera productions, featuring some of Ireland’s most internationally renowned artists, set against the stunning backdrops of Lismore Castle and St. Carthage’s Cathedral. The festival will also bring live performances to Cappoquin, Dungarvan, Stradbally, Youghal, and Castlemartyr. With over 100 world-class artists arriving in the region, audiences can look forward to more than 75 hours of live music. From baroque opera to classical favourites, performed in some of Ireland’s most historic and atmospheric venues, this year’s programme promises unforgettable experiences - complete with bespoke dining and warm summer hospitality.
Festival highlights include:
Opera at the Castle
For the first time in the festival’s history, a 20th-century opera will take centre stage. Benjamin Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed at Lismore Castle, featuring a predominantly all-Irish cast and the Irish Chamber Orchestra, conducted by David Brophy, and directed by Patrick Mason.
Weds 28 May, Fri 30 May - Sun 1 June (All performances Sold Out), Lismore Castle, Waterford
Opera in the Cathedral
Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, featuring Paula Murrihy, Dean Murphy, Kelli-Ann Masterson, and the Irish Baroque Orchestra, will showcase the expressive beauty of Baroque opera, offering a striking contrast in musical style and atmosphere across the festival.
Tues 27 May (limited tickets available), Thurs 29 May(Sold Out), St. Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore, Waterford. Tickets €20-€40
Concerts at Dromore Yard
A romantic, semi-restored 19th-century farmyard on the banks of the River Blackwater sets the scene for two of the festival’s most anticipated performances, headlined by internationally celebrated Irish mezzo-sopranos Paula Murrihy and Niamh O’Sullivan. O’Sullivan’s Where Birds Do Sing recital with pianist Gary Beecher at Dromore Yard promises to be a standout moment – following their acclaimed appearance at Wigmore Hall, London. Paula Murrihy returns to the same venue for the festival finale, Baroque Hits, performing with the Irish Baroque Orchestra under the baton of Nicholas McGegan.
Unique Recital Locations
Throughout the week, a series of intimate classical performances will take place in historic homes and venues across the Blackwater Valley, giving audiences a unique opportunity to experience Ireland’s cultural heritage through the magic of live performance. Programme highlights include Shakespeare in Music, The Tinker and the Fairy, and a special poetry and music recital honouring George Bernard Shaw.
Witness the talent of tomorrow
The festival supports emerging talent through four bursary awards, recognising exceptional promise in young artists and performers. This year’s recipients – sopranos Eva Kavanagh and Aimee Kearney, and pianist Georgina Cassidy – will appear alongside Irish Heritage award winners in live performances during the week. Tickets for selected recitals are still available.
Free Open Air Recitals
Experience classical and operatic music in a welcoming, relaxed outdoor setting with Free Open-Air Lunchtime Recitals at Waterford and Cork – in Lismore, Dungarvan, Youghal, and Castlemartyr – on 27th, 30th, and 31st May, and 1st June. Admission is free, but booking is advised. Book a free ticket in advance online.
Engage Your Senses
Food lovers can look forward to a feast of flavours throughout the week, including a Midsummer-inspired menu created by celebrity TV chef Eunice Power, served at Lismore Castle. Guests can also indulge in Gourmet Table Picnics or pair lunchtime recitals with specially curated dining packages at local restaurants and cafés.#
Pre-booking is essential for all dining or call the Box Office for prices and options.
Opera for the Young
As part of the festival’s commitment to inspiring creativity and sharing the joy of opera and classical music with children and young people across the region, hundreds of primary and post-primary students will take part in educational workshops, attend the Opera Dress Rehearsal, and perform at the Opening Ceremony on Tuesday 27th May at 12pm in Lismore.
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival is supported by grants from the Arts Council of Ireland, Waterford City & County Council, and Waterford Leader. The festival’s lead sponsors are AIB, Kildare Village, Marsh, and the John Pollard Foundation.
Tickets for all events are almost sold out with limited tickets available for a number of events- call the BVOF Box Office on 087 407 9250.
To discover more about BVOF’s week of opera, classical music recitals and concerts, schools programme, free events, dining experiences and more, visit blackwatervalleyopera.ie
