Tipperary opera enthusiasts enjoy Blackwater Valley programme of events

The Blackwater Valley Opera Festival has been hailed an outstanding success by organisers. The eight-day festival which concluded today attracted over 5,000 people to the opera, concerts and recitals - including ticketed and free events. Visitors engaged their senses as they basked in the summer sunshine with stunning performances by some of Ireland and Europe’s leading classical and operatic performers and bespoke dining experiences, in stunning historic venues.

 WORKSHOPS

Local school children were the first to get a glimpse of what was in store for lucky audiences as over 400 primary and post-primary students took part in educational workshops on set, attended the Opera Dress Rehearsal, and performed at the Opening Ceremony.  

The flagship opera Giulio Cesare by G.F. Handel on the breathtaking grounds of Lismore Castle received rave reviews from audiences. Conductor Nicholas McGegan led the Irish Baroque Orchestra and a stellar cast directed by Tom Creed in an outstanding interpretation of one of Handel's greatest Italian operas. Other highlights included some incredible performances at Dromore Yard - a romantic, semi-restored 19th-century farmyard on the banks of the River Blackwater; including a belcanto operatic concert - Of Emperors, Kings, and Queens, which starred Serenad Uyar, Leonardo Galeazzi, and Dearbhla Collins; the Clara Haskil Piano Competition Concert presented by Finghin Collins, which featured Magdalene Ho with Marc Coppey, and the festival finale Vivaldi Concert with the Irish Baroque Orchestra - conducted by Nicholas McGegan, and with Arianna Vendittelli, and Iestyn Morris.

 HISTORIC LOCATIONS

Audiences were treated to some breathtaking performances at a series of intimate classical recitals held in various historic locations and precious homes throughout the Blackwater Valley,  including the scenic Cappoquin House and Gardens, Tourin House, Salterbridge House, Woodhouse Estate, and the atmospheric St. Carthage’s Cathedral, Villierstown Church, and St Mary’s Collegiate Church. 

Performances included recitals by this year’s RDS Collins Memorial winner, BVOF Bursary winners, RIAM John Pollard winners, and Irish Heritage award winners.