Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 2025

An Enchanted Evening at the Opera – Blackwater Valley Opera Festival Brings Benjamin Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Lismore Castle

2025 Programme Blends Culture, Cuisine, and Community in Ireland’s Ancient East

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) has unveiled an exciting programme of opera and classical music for its 2025 festival, which runs from 27th May to 2nd June. Celebrating its 15th anniversary year, Ireland’s leading summer opera festival runs for 8 days and features world-class performances and bespoke dining experiences in historic homes and venues in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan, and Castlemartyr, as well as innovative programmes that bring opera and classical music to new audiences. Tickets are now on sale for all performances with many expected to sell out, so early booking is advised.

The highlight of the 2025 festival will be Benjamin Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with four performances staged in the majestic grounds of Lismore Castle. The opera brings to life a tale of magic, mischief, romance, and comedy, centred on the quarrel between Fairy-King Oberon and Queen Titania. Featuring an all-Irish cast of performers, under the direction of Tony Award-winning Patrick Mason, the production brings together the Irish Chamber Orchestra, conducted by David Brophy, and the Children’s Chorus – including young voices from Piccolo Lasso and the BVOF Discover Singing Education Programme. The creative team includes set and lighting design by Paul Keogan and costume design by Catherine Fay. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the castle’s historic architecture and lush surroundings, this production will bring world-class artistry and magic in the moonlight to one of Ireland’s most iconic venues.

The second opera at BVOF 2025, takes place on 27 and 29 May at St Carthage’s Cathedral in Lismore. Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas features Paula Murrihy, Dean Murphy, Kelli-Ann Masterson, and the Irish Baroque Orchestra conducted by Nicholas McGegan. Dido and Aeneas is an iconic Baroque opera, telling the tragic love story of Dido, Queen of Carthage, and the Trojan hero Aeneas.

With over 100 performers across 23 events at 12 venues, there is a beautifully curated programme of concerts, recitals, and cultural experiences. The ever-popular Concerts at Dromore Yard return. What better way to spend a summer’s afternoon or evening than enjoying a picnic of delicious local produce before being serenaded by some of Ireland’s leading vocalists. Highlights include When Birds Do Sing – a celebration of music with mezzo-soprano Niamh O’Sullivan and pianist Gary Beecher. This year’s festival finale Baroque Hits sees the return of the Irish Baroque Orchestra conducted by Nicholas McGegan – with mezzo-soprano, Paula Murrihy.

The BVOF 2025 Recital Programme will bring performances to historic homes and venues throughout the Blackwater Valley including Salterbridge House, Tourin House, Villierstown Church, St Carthage’s Cathedral, and Woodhouse Estate. These recitals offer a chance to experience Ireland’s cultural heritage and the magic of live performance. Highlights include Shakespeare in Music, The Tinker and the Fairy, and a poetry and music recital honouring George Bernard Shaw.

Food lovers can look forward to an array of delicious options, including a Midsummer-inspired menu crafted by celebrity TV chef Eunice Power at Lismore Castle. Guests can also indulge in Gourmet Table Picnics or pair lunchtime recitals with dining packages at local eateries.

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival hopes to welcome more than 5,000 visitors and engage with 2,000 students through its growing educational outreach programmes which make opera and classical music more accessible to the whole community. Through its Bursary Awards, the festival will support 9 artists and performers with €45,000 in funding, made possible thanks to the generosity of its supporters. BVOF’s much-loved pop-up Open Air Lunchtime Recitals will also return, bringing free performances to Waterford and Cork. These accessible events offer a wonderful chance to enjoy classical and operatic music in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Eamonn Carroll, Festival Director of Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, said, “We’re delighted to present a fantastic programme for our 15th festival, bringing together outstanding performances and exciting productions featuring leading artists from Ireland and beyond. Whether you’re a devoted opera fan or simply looking for a remarkable live experience, there’s something for everyone. At its heart, the festival is about creating unforgettable moments – world-class performances in stunning historic settings, paired with exceptional dining. The Blackwater Valley will be alive with music, culture, and a truly special atmosphere.”

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 are now on sale at blackwatervalleyopera.ie with concession rates available for senior citizens, students, and community groups. Bespoke group packages include tickets, dining, and VIP experiences.