Thank you to our audiences

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 2026 has now drawn to a close, and we would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us across the week.

More than 5,500 people attended events during this year’s festival, from opera at Lismore Castle and St Carthage’s Cathedral to concerts, recitals, talks and events across the Blackwater Valley. The festival is only possible because of the continued support of audiences, Friends, Patrons, volunteers, partners and sponsors, and we are grateful to everyone who was part of it. This year’s programme saw strong demand across opera, concerts and recitals, reaching capacity well in advance. It was a pleasure to welcome both returning audiences and many first-time visitors to Ireland’s Summer Opera Festival.

Until we meet again – go raibh míle maith agaibh.

💫 Become a Friend of BVOF
Friends enjoy exclusive benefits, including priority booking from November 2026 and special invitations throughout the year. If you are considering attending in 2027, Friends Membership provides the earliest access to tickets, helping secure preferred dates and seating before public booking opens. Friends also receive invitations to events throughout the year and acknowledgement at the festival, while supporting the artistic, education and community programmes at the heart of Ireland’s Summer Opera Festival.