The Wexford Festival Opera is set to enchant audiences with a series of unforgettable performances this fall. From the dramatic tales of brotherly rivalry in Verdi's 'Le Trouvère', to the mythical adventures of Achilles in Handel's 'Deidamia', and the exploration of youth's fountain by Delius in 'The Magic Fountain', each opera promises to bring stories to life with vibrant music and captivating performances. Held at the National Opera House in Wexford, Ireland, this festival is a must-see for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Wexford Festival Opera: A Celebration of Timeless Narratives and Music Mastery

This year's Wexford Festival Opera in Ireland offers an eclectic lineup that promises to captivate opera enthusiasts with its compelling narratives and musical mastery. The festival features Verdi's 'Le Trouvère,' Handel's 'Deidamia,' and Delius's 'The Magic Fountain,' each presenting a unique exploration of human emotions and mythic themes. The performances are set to unfold at the National Opera House, Wexford, providing an opportunity for audiences to immerse themselves in the operatic world of rivalry, heroism, and the eternal quest for youth.

Opera at Wexford Festival: A Symphony of Rivalry, Heroism, and Legend

The Wexford Festival Opera is back in 2025 with a captivating lineup that takes audiences on an emotional journey through time. Featuring works like 'Le Trouvère' by Verdi, 'Deidamia' by Handel, and 'The Magic Fountain' by Delius, the festival presents a rich tapestry of stories. From tragic sibling rivalries to the mythical exploits of Achilles and the legendary quest for eternal youth, this year's selection promises a deep dive into opera's dramatic narratives, all brought to life at the National Opera House in Wexford, Ireland.

Unveiling Opera's Timeless Tales: Wexford Festival Opera 2025

The Wexford Festival Opera 2025 brings together a dazzling lineup of operas that promise to captivate audiences with gripping tales and spellbinding music. Featuring Giuseppe Verdi's 'Le Trouvère', George Frideric Handel's 'Deidamia', and Frederick Delius's 'The Magic Fountain', this year's festival promises a deep dive into stories of rivalry, love, and legendary quests. Featuring performances by talented artists such as conductor Marcus Bosch and Francesco Cilluffo, the festival is set to unfold in the charming town of Wexford, Ireland. Get ready for an immersive operatic experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Wexford Festival Opera 2025: A Journey Through Unforgettable Tales and Timeless Music

Step into the heart of the Wexford Festival Opera 2025, where three captivating operas—Le Trouvère by Giuseppe Verdi, Deidamia by George Frideric Handel, and The Magic Fountain by Frederick Delius—take center stage. Hosted at the National Opera House in Wexford, Ireland, these productions promise an exhilarating blend of drama, music, and storytelling. With performances spanning from mid-October to early November, festival-goers can immerse themselves in tales of brotherly rivalry, hidden heroism, and quests for eternal youth. Join us on this journey through timeless narratives and extraordinary musical compositions.

Unveiling the Operatic Masterpieces at Wexford Festival Opera 2025

The Magic Fountain by Frederick Delius tells the story of a Spanish explorer, Solano, and his crew, who are becalmed at sea off the coast of Florida. While the crew longs for home, Solano is consumed by a legend he has heard about the Fountain of Eternal Youth.

EPSG:4326

The Magic Fountain

National Opera House

Deidamia by George Frideric Handel is an opera about the Greek hero Achilles, who is in hiding to avoid being sent to fight in the Trojan War.

Deidamia

Le Trouvère is an opera by Giuseppe Verdi, a French version of Il Trovatore. The story is about two brothers, separated at birth under tragic circumstances, who unknowingly become enemies. Manrico, has been raised as a troubadour, while the other, Count di Luna, grows up as a nobleman. Their rivalry leads to war, love triangles, and a tragic ending when one brother accidentally orders the execution of the other. They do not realise they are brothers until much later. Their rivalry becomes deadly, especially as both fall in love with the same woman, Leonora.

Le Trouvère

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera at the "Impossible Interview" event, a highlight of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. This unique performance is scheduled for Wednesday, 30th October, at the Jerome Hynes Theatre, located within the prestigious National Opera House. Tickets are priced at €10, offering an accessible gateway to an extraordinary experience that lasts approximately 50 minutes.

"Impossible Interview" presents an intriguing concept where the boundaries of time are blurred, allowing for a conversation between the celebrated critic, Mr. Michael Dervan, and the legendary composer Charles Villiers Stanford. Stanford's work, "The Critic," is one of the main stage operas featured in this year's festival, making this event a must-see for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. 

Written and hosted by Michael Dervan, the event promises a symphony of secrets and revelations that defy mortality. This ethereal encounter is not just a performance but a journey into the heart of music and creativity, offering insights and surprises that will captivate the audience.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a unique operatic experience at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable dive into the legacy and magic of opera.

Impossible Interview

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. This prestigious event, taking place from 18 October to 2 November 2024, promises an unforgettable journey through the emotional landscape of opera's most ravishing arias. The highlight of the festival is set for Tuesday, 29 October, at the O'Reilly Theatre in the National Opera House, where the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, under the baton of the esteemed guest conductor Francesco Cilluffo, will perform a concert that is sure to captivate the hearts of music lovers everywhere.

Francesco Cilluffo, renowned for his dynamic conducting and deep connection with opera, returns to the Wexford Festival Opera as Principal Guest Conductor. With a program featuring a selection of opera's most extraordinary singers, including soprano Celine Byrne, mezzo Sharon Carty, tenor Andrew Morstein, and baritone Paolo Bordogna, the concert promises an evening of passion, romance, and drama. Each piece has been carefully selected to showcase the emotional highs of opera, from pleasure to despair, and ultimately to ecstasy.

Tickets for this mesmerizing concert are priced between €20 and €50, offering a range of options for attendees. The performance is expected to run for approximately 90 minutes, providing a perfect evening of cultural enrichment and musical excellence. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the power and beauty of opera with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024.

RTÉ Concert Orchestra

Join us for an enchanting evening with the New Dublin Voices at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. This highly anticipated choral concert is set to take place on Monday, 28th October, within the hallowed walls of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rowe Street. Under the baton of the esteemed Bernie Sherlock, the leading chamber choir, founded in 2005, promises an unforgettable performance starting at 2pm.

After a triumphant concert last year, New Dublin Voices returns to captivate audiences once more, showcasing their passion for the works of living composers. The concert will feature a selection of Irish and world premieres, highlighting the choir's commitment to contemporary music. With an approximate running time of 80 minutes, attendees are in for a treat that celebrates the power and beauty of vocal harmony.

Tickets are priced at €25, offering an opportunity to experience the sublime acoustics of Rowe Street Church and the exceptional talent of New Dublin Voices. Don't miss this chance to be part of a memorable afternoon of music at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. Book your tickets now and immerse yourself in the artistry of one of Ireland's premier chamber choirs.

New Dublin Voices

Church of the Immaculate Conception

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera at the Gala Concert, a highlight of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. This much-anticipated event is set to take place at the O'Reilly Theatre, National Opera House, on Sunday, 27th October, from 9pm. With a running time of approximately 90 minutes, the concert promises an unforgettable evening filled with opera repertoires and songs.

For years, the Gala Concert has stood out as the most sought-after event by Friends of the festival and patrons alike, thanks to the performers who generously donate their time and talent. This special night is designed to be a fun ride through the magic of opera, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy a memorable experience while showing your support for the Festival. The concert is conceived on the special night when the hands of your watch turn back an hour, making it an unrepeatable chance to revel in the joy of music.

Tickets are priced between €30 and €90, catering to a wide range of preferences. Early booking is advised to secure your spot at this exclusive event, as it is known to attract significant interest from opera enthusiasts and supporters of the arts.

Join us for an evening of exquisite performances and be part of a tradition that celebrates the best of opera. The Gala Concert at the Wexford Festival Opera is not just an event; it's an experience that resonates long after the final note has been sung.

Gala Concert

Immerse yourself in the dramatic intensity of "Pagliacci," a seminal opera by Ruggero Leoncavallo, presented at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. This semi-staged masterpiece, sung in Italian with English surtitles, captures the essence of theatrical illusion and reality through its prologue and two acts. First performed in Milan, Italy, in 1892, "Pagliacci" stands out for its sophisticated musical and dramatic exploration of the lives and emotions of its lowborn characters.

The opera unfolds a harrowing tale of love, betrayal, and revenge within a commedia dell’arte troupe. Central to the story are Canio and Nedda, a married couple entangled in a web of jealousy and secret affairs. As the plot thickens, the boundaries between performance and reality blur, leading to a tragic climax that leaves the audience questioning the nature of the spectacle they've witnessed.

This year's production features Samuel White as Canio, under the baton of conductor Emanuele Quaranta, with Stefania Panighini directing. Panighini, known for her work at the Wexford Festival Opera and other prestigious venues, brings a fresh perspective to this classic opera.

Performances are scheduled from October 24 to November 1, 2024, at the O'Reilly Theatre in the National Opera House, offering a range of dates and times to accommodate all schedules. Tickets are priced between €25 and €50, promising an accessible experience for all opera enthusiasts. With an approximate running time of 60 minutes, "Pagliacci" at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024 is an unmissable event that combines compelling storytelling with exceptional musical artistry.

Pagliacci

Immerse yourself in the heart of opera innovation at the Factory Concert, a premier event of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. For the first time, this concert has been officially incorporated into the festival's illustrious program, marking a significant milestone. Scheduled for Monday, 21st October, at the prestigious O'Reilly Theatre within the National Opera House, this evening promises to be a revelation of operatic talent.

The Factory Concert is not just any performance; it is a unique showcase spotlighting the exceptional singers and repetiteurs who are the lifeblood of the Festival’s Wexford Factory programme. This initiative is renowned for nurturing the next generation of opera talent, turning promise into fulfillment through rigorous professional development.

With tickets priced at €20, attendees are offered an unparalleled opportunity to witness the future of opera. The event begins at 7pm, providing an evening filled with captivating performances that represent the cutting edge of operatic artistry.

This concert is a must-attend for anyone curious about the future directions of opera or those who simply love to experience high-caliber performances in an intimate setting. The Factory Concert at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024 is your chance to be part of a momentous occasion in the operatic calendar, celebrating new talents and the continuous evolution of this timeless art form.

The Factory Concert

Immerse yourself in the world of opera at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024, featuring the enchanting production of Gaetano Donizetti's "Le convenienze ed inconvenienze teatrali." This captivating event will take place at the prestigious O'Reilly Theatre, National Opera House, from 18th October to 2nd November 2024, offering a rich tapestry of performances that showcase the brilliance of Donizetti's work.

"Le convenienze ed inconvenienze teatrali," also known under various titles such as "Viva la Mamma," is a two-act opera buffa that delves into the comedic intricacies of the operatic world. With a libretto by Domenico Gilardoni and sung in Italian with English surtitles, this fully-staged production promises an evening of laughter and entertainment. The opera, which first premiered in its revised form in Milan, Italy, in 1831, offers a satirical look at the conventions and inconveniences of the theatre, making it a must-see for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The cast features a talented ensemble including Daria Garbinati, Sharleen Joynt, Paolo Bordogna, and Giuseppe Toia, under the baton of conductor Danila Grassi. Directed by Orpha Phelan, with set and costume design by Madeline Boyd and lighting by Daniele Naldi, this production is set to be a highlight of the festival.

Performances are scheduled for 20th, 25th, 28th October, and 2nd November, with tickets priced between €35 and €160. Priority booking for Friends of the Festival opens on 24th April 2024, offering an exclusive opportunity to secure your seats for this not-to-be-missed event. With an approximate running time of 150 minutes, "Le convenienze ed inconvenienze teatrali" promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of opera's playful critique on its own world.

Don't miss your chance to experience this exceptional production at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. Book your tickets early and prepare for an evening filled with exquisite music, outstanding performances, and unparalleled operatic satire.

Le convenienze ed inconvenienze teatrali

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024, featuring the mesmerizing event "Bach at Midnight Nearly." This unique series of performances is scheduled to take place on select nights between 18 October and 2 November 2024, offering attendees an intimate experience with the timeless compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach.

Set within the elegant ambiance of the Greenacres Gallery, "Bach at Midnight Nearly" presents an innovative fusion of music and dance, scheduled for the nights of 20, 23, 24, 25, 29, and 31 October, all beginning at 11 pm. Each ticket, priced at €20, includes not only the admission to this soul-stirring performance but also a complimentary glass of wine, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

At the heart of this event is renowned cellist Adrian Mantu, the principal cellist in the WFO Orchestra, who will guide the audience through the wonderfully expressive Bach’s Cello Suites. Complementing Mantu's virtuosic performance, choreographer and dancer Luisa Baldinetti will bring a visual interpretation to the music, performing one Suite for Cello each night. Baldinetti, a celebrated figure in the realms of dance and theatre, has collaborated with prestigious venues and festivals around the world, including Teatro alla Scala and Sidney Opera House.

"Bach at Midnight Nearly" is not just a concert; it's an exploration of the depths of human emotion and artistic expression, promising an unforgettable night for all who attend. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary event at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. Tickets are available for purchase now.

Bach at Midnight

Greenacres Gallery

Immerse yourself in the world of opera with the newly commissioned work, "Lady Gregory in America," a captivating one-act opera by Alberto Caruso, featuring a libretto by Colm Tóibín. This English-sung opera is set to grace the stage at the Jerome Hynes Theatre, National Opera House, as part of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. The performances are scheduled from 20 October to 1 November, offering a unique glimpse into the American adventures of Augusta Gregory, a pivotal figure in Irish cultural history and co-founder of Dublin’s Abbey Theatre alongside Y.B. Yeats.

This operatic comedy, marking Tóibín’s third collaboration with composer Alberto Caruso, delves into the life of the formidable Irishwoman, Augusta Gregory, and her interactions with other revolutionary Irish women during her time in America. The creative team behind this production includes Alberto Caruso as the conductor, Aoife Spillane-Hinks as the stage director, and Lisa Krugel handling stage and costume design, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Tickets are priced at €25, with the opera boasting an approximate running time of 80 minutes. Performance dates and times vary, including morning shows at 11 am on select dates, with the final performance on 1 November already sold out, highlighting the anticipation and excitement surrounding this event.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience "Lady Gregory in America" and be part of a journey through opera that intertwines history, culture, and the arts at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024.

Lady Gregory in America

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of opera at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024, featuring a standout production of Charles Villiers Stanford's "The Critic." This enchanting opera, sung in English with English surtitles, promises an unforgettable experience with its fully-staged presentation. Based on the libretto by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, "The Critic" first graced the stage in 1916 at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London, showcasing the combined Dublin-born talents of Stanford and Sheridan, who both found their fame in England.

Set against the backdrop of the O'Reilly Theatre at the National Opera House, this production brings to life the satirical edge of Sheridan's work, under the baton of conductor Ciarán McAuley and the visionary direction of Conor Hanratty. The story unfolds on the stage of a theatre during the rehearsal of a new opera, "The Spanish Armada," with the characters navigating the complexities of love, loyalty, and artistic endeavor amidst the threat of a Spanish invasion.

The cast features a blend of emerging and established talents, including Tony Brennan as Lord Burleigh, Rory Dunne as the Governor of Tilbury Fort, Gyula Nagy as Earl of Leicester, and Ava Dodd as Tilburina, among others. Each performer brings depth and nuance to their roles, promising a production rich in vocal excellence and dramatic flair.

"The Critic" will be performed on select dates between October 19 and November 1, 2024, offering audiences a chance to experience Stanford's penultimate opera, hailed as one of his finest works. With tickets available for priority booking from April 24, 2024, for Friends of the Festival, this is an opportunity to partake in a historic piece of opera that bridges humor with the grandeur of operatic tradition.

Prepare for an evening of exquisite music, compelling drama, and the timeless wit of "The Critic" at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024.

The Critic

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera with the Wexford Festival Opera 2024, taking place from 18th October to 2nd November. This prestigious event, held at the iconic National Opera House, promises an unforgettable journey through a rich variety of performances and events that showcase the beauty and diversity of opera.

Exclusive to Friends of the Festival, the Friends Parties are a highlight not to be missed. Scheduled on the 19th, 23rd, 26th of October, and the 1st of November, these post-opera gatherings offer a unique opportunity to revel in the festival's atmosphere. Attendees will enjoy a meal, connect with fellow opera enthusiasts, and have the chance to meet and engage with the talented singers and artistic teams behind the performances.

Admission to these exclusive events is by ticket only, with space limited to ensure an intimate and memorable experience. Friends of the Festival can book their complimentary tickets through the box office, choosing from the events that best suit their festival itinerary. Membership benefits vary, with Ensemble Friends receiving four complimentary tickets, Aria Friends eight, and Bravura Friends up to twelve, among other categories. Prelude Friends have the option to purchase tickets at a discounted rate, with additional tickets available for purchase at €40 each.

Don't miss the chance to enhance your Wexford Festival Opera experience with these exclusive Friends Parties. Book your tickets early to secure your spot at these coveted gatherings and prepare for an opera experience like no other.

Friends Parties

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of opera at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024, featuring the much-anticipated "Puccini: Man of the Theatre." This unique event, devised and written by the Grammy-nominated classical singer, writer, and theatre producer William Niall Morris, with music by Puccini, is set to take place from 18 October to 2 November 2024 at the Jerome Hynes Theatre, National Opera House.

"Puccini: Man of the Theatre" is an opera in one act, performed in English with operatic extracts sung in Italian, commissioned by the Wexford Festival Opera to commemorate the centenary of Puccini’s death. The show offers a profound exploration of Giacomo Puccini's life, highlighting the rapid success he achieved with masterpieces such as La Bohème, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly, and delving into the personal tragedy that threatened to unravel his idyllic existence. Through this opera, Puccini seeks redemption and freedom in the only way he knows—through composing.

Under the direction of William Niall Morris, with stage and costume design by Lisa Krugel, audiences are invited to experience a production that combines spoken word and music to tell the story of one of opera's greatest composers. The show runs approximately 75 minutes, making it an accessible yet deeply moving experience for both opera aficionados and newcomers alike.

Performances are scheduled for various dates and times throughout the festival, ensuring ample opportunity for attendees to witness this remarkable production. Tickets are priced at €25, offering an affordable gateway to the enriching world of opera.

Don't miss this exceptional blend of history, music, and storytelling at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. "Puccini: Man of the Theatre" promises to be a highlight of the festival, celebrating the legacy of a musical genius who continues to inspire and move audiences around the world.

Puccini: Man of the Theatre

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera and classical music at the Lunchtime Recitals, part of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. From October 18th to November 2nd, 2024, these recitals offer a splendid opportunity to experience the thrill of live performance in the intimate settings of the O'Reilly Theatre at the National Opera House and St. Iberius Church.

The Lunchtime Recitals are a highlight for music aficionados, showcasing a broad spectrum of musical genres. Attendees will be treated to an exquisite selection of operatic arias, lieder, oratorio, concert pieces, and popular songs. The performances feature talented soloists accompanied by pianists, each bringing their unique musical versatility to the stage.

With a running time of approximately 55 minutes, these recitals are a perfect midday escape into the world of music. The diversity of the repertoire ensures that there is something to suit all musical tastes, making each recital a unique experience.

Due to the popularity of these events and the limited seating capacity, early booking is highly recommended to secure your spot. Tickets are priced at €20, offering an accessible way to enjoy high-quality live music.

The recitals are scheduled on select dates between October 19th and November 2nd, with performances starting at 1pm. Whether you choose the historic ambiance of St. Iberius Church or the modern elegance of the O'Reilly Theatre, these recitals promise an unforgettable musical journey during the Wexford Festival Opera 2024.

Lunchtime Recitals

St. Iberius' Church

Join us at the Jerome Hynes Theatre, National Opera House, for the Dr. Tom Walsh Lecture, a highlight of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. This exclusive event, scheduled for Saturday, 19th October at 11 am, promises an enlightening and mysterious journey into the realms of opera and beyond.

Our distinguished guest lecturer, whose identity is being kept a secret to add an element of surprise, is a person of immense importance and influence in Irish life. His accomplishments are unparalleled, and his insights are expected to leave the audience inspired and intrigued. This lecture is not just an event; it's an experience designed to captivate and provoke curiosity and anticipation.

Tickets are priced at €15, making it accessible for everyone who wishes to be part of this unforgettable experience. Don't miss the opportunity to dive into a talk full of discovery, curiosity, and anticipation. Mark your calendars, stay tuned for further updates, and prepare to be part of an event that promises to be a cornerstone of the Wexford Festival Opera 2024.

For tickets and more information, visit the Wexford Festival Opera website or contact the box office directly at 353 53 912 2144. Let the intrigue begin!

Dr Tom Walsh Lecture

It’s Mascagni’s homage to Rossini and to the Italian opera buffa and commedia dell’arte traditions. It was premiered simultaneously in six Italian opera houses but, apart from Rome, the reception was subdued. While it has often been held that Mascagni was a ‘one opera man’ who could never repeat the success of Cavalleria rusticana, this verdict has already been debunked by Wexford’s four previous Mascagni productions, most recently Guglielmo Ratcliff in 2015.

Le maschere

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024, featuring the much-anticipated performance of Gaetano Donizetti's masterpiece, "The Elixir of Love." This opera, a jewel of the bel canto tradition, promises an unforgettable experience with its captivating music and timeless tale of romance and magic.

Event Details:
- **Opera**: The Elixir of Love by Gaetano Donizetti
- **Dates**: 18th October to 2nd November 2024
- **Venue**: The Grain Store at Stonebridge, part of the Wexford Festival Opera
- **Ticket Price**: €15
- **Duration**: Approximately 70 minutes

Following its sell-out success in 2023, the 2024 festival will continue to engage the local community and Wexford Factory artists in workshops leading up to the festival. These collaborative efforts culminate in an immersive performance that blurs the lines between performers and audience, offering a unique and participatory experience in a non-traditional setting.

Performance Schedule:
- **18th October**: 5:00 PM
- **22nd October**: 7:30 PM (Sold Out)
- **25th October**: 4:30 PM (Sold Out)
- **28th October**: 7:30 PM
- **31st October**: 4:30 PM
- **2nd November**: 4:30 PM

This rendition of "The Elixir of Love" features a libretto by Felice Romani, revised and updated by Timothy Knapman, ensuring a fresh and engaging interpretation of this classic opera. First performed in 1832 at the Teatro della Cannobiana in Milan, Italy, Donizetti's work remains a beloved staple in the opera repertoire.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this magical journey at the Wexford Festival Opera 2024. Whether you're a lifelong opera enthusiast or new to the art form, "The Elixir of Love" offers a heartwarming story, exquisite music, and an innovative presentation that will leave you spellbound. Secure your tickets now and prepare to be transported by the power of opera.

Wexford Festival Opera

19 - 31 Oct, 2025

The Magic Fountain

18 - 30 Oct, 2025

Deidamia

Articles & News

Wexford Festival Opera