Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) is set to deliver an ambitious and artistically rich programme from 27th May to 2nd June 2025, presenting two operas for the first time and featuring some of Ireland’s most internationally acclaimed artists.
Celebrating its 15th anniversary year, Ireland’s Summer Opera Festival will offer an extraordinary experience for audiences, combining world-class talent, innovative productions, bespoke dining experiences and accessible ticket pricing to make opera more inviting than ever before.
At the heart of the festival’s programme is a unique double opera presentation. Benjamin Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, performed at Lismore Castle, featuring an all-Irish cast of performers, with the Irish Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Tony Award-winning director Patrick Mason, marks the first time a 20th-century opera will take centre stage at BVOF. In contrast, Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, with Paula Murrihy, Dean Murphy, Kelli-Ann Masterson, and the Irish Baroque Orchestra, will showcase the expressive beauty of Baroque opera, providing a striking contrast in musical styles across the festival.
The festival will also feature two highly anticipated concerts at Dromore Yard, headlined by internationally renowned 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 event – following on from their recent performance at Wigmore Hall London. Paula Murrihy brings her signature depth and artistry to the festival finale concert Baroque Hits with the Irish Baroque Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas McGegan.
While the festival’s artistic excellence is the true headline this year, accessibility remains a key focus. With ticket prices starting from just €25-€30, BVOF ensures that exceptional performances can be enjoyed at outstanding value. Additionally, new ticket options include €50 seats at Lismore Castle for A Midsummer’s Night Dream opera and €40/€20 tickets at St. Carthage’s Cathedral, making it easier than ever for audiences to experience the magic of live opera in some of Ireland’s most breathtaking settings.
The BVOF 2025 Recital Programme will bring performances to historic homes and venues throughout the Blackwater Valley offering audiences 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.
With over 100 performers across 23 events at 12 venues, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival continues to push artistic boundaries with a beautifully curated programme of concerts, recitals, and cultural experiences while staying true to its mission of making opera an unforgettable and accessible experience. This year’s programme is set to be a landmark moment in the festival’s history, celebrating both the evolution of opera and the enduring power of live performance.
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 with concession rates available for senior citizens, students, unwaged and disabled visitors. Bespoke group packages include tickets, dining, and VIP experiences.
