A magical evening of opera, performed live on the croquet lawn in the gardens of Great Ruffins, architect A.H. Mackmurdo's quirkiest creation.

Wild Arts brings a stunning cast of young singers and an ensemble of eminent chamber musicians chosen by musical director Orlando Jopling and directed by Ben Morris.

Joanna Songi soprano
Martha Jones mezzo
Richard Dowling tenor
Tim Nelson baritone

The gardens will be open from 4.30pm. Arrive in good time to set up your picnic and enjoy the beautiful garden. 

Follow four characters’ journeys through a kaleidoscope of songs, arias, duets, and ensembles in this entertaining evening of opera and musicals, performed by four stunning young singers and five fine chamber musicians. 

Some wonderful and well-known music by Handel, Mozart, the great Italian opera composers, and Rodgers & Hammerstein, plus some surprises and unusual gems. From the emotional depth of the quartet from Beethoven’s Fidelio to the sheer pazzazz of the final number from Verdi's Falstaff and the caustic wit of Sondheim’s lyrics - there'll be something for everyone. 

The orchestral scores will be expertly arranged for string quintet, played by five fine chamber musicians.

The opera evening is produced and curated by conductor Orlando Jopling, artistic director of the Roman River Festival. Orlando co-founded two opera companies and has spent much of his working life in opera and ballet, at the Royal Opera House in London, Garsington Opera and Scottish Opera.

A Wild Arts production for Sham and Lionel Ambiavagar Bailly
Patron Roderick Williams OBE

operaevenings.co.uk

Saturday 23 July 2022, Great Ruffins
4.30pm Gardens open | 6pm Performance | 7.30 - 9pm Picnics