The Waterperry Opera Festival has announced a preview of its 2026 season.

Opening the season is Puccini’s “La Bohème.” Ruth Knight will direct alongside designer Jennifery Gregory. Bertie Baigent will conduct. Next, John Wilkie will direct Donizetti’s “The Elixir of Love.” Ceci Calf, Jake Wiltshire, and conductor Charlotte Politi make up the creative team.

In a press release, Artistic Director and CEO John Savournin, commented, “These two universally adored operas will sit perfectly in Waterperry’s beautiful setting and allow us to continue championing the reach of this important art form. Underscoring our commitment to accessibility, La Bohème and The Elixir of Love will be sung in English, ensuring that audiences can connect with these stories directly and viscerally, whether they’re seasoned opera enthusiasts or joining us for the very first time. I am thrilled to welcome such extraordinarily talented directors and designers to Waterperry, and we look forward to sharing more about this rich and varied season in the coming months, including our wonderful casts.”

The full program of events will be announced in Jan. 2026.

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