Opera returns to Lismore for the Blackwater Valley Festival in May
With the return of summer festivals, it’s not just the re-emergence of rock and pop weekends in the field, but also genre festivals and regional events – including Lismore, Co. Waterford’s Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, which runs from May 31 to June 6.
Headlining a Gluck production led by Peter Whelan and led by David Bolger, the festival will also feature classical music recitals and concerts, free schools and events, and dining experiences at venues across the region.
takes place in the splendor of Lismore Castle from June 1-5, with Kelli-Ann Masterson, Meili Li and Aoife Gibney; with music from the Irish Baroque Orchestra and the BVOF Chorus, and dancers from the CoisCéim Dance Theatre.
Other highlights include concerts at Dromore Yard, including Maurice Steger and Friends, Daniele Caminiti and Mauro Valli, pianist Giovanni Bellucci and the Irish Baroque Orchestra – all under the artistic direction of Peter Whelan.
Free outdoor recitals will continue, with performances in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan and Fermoy – free, but must be booked in advance on the festival website. Similar events will also take place at Lismore Castle, Salterbridge House, St Carthage Cathedral, Villierstown Church and Tourin House.
Added to the 2022 billing is a ‘Singing Schools’ program in conjunction with Music Generation Waterford, for local primary schools, joining the ‘Discover Opera’ route and Opera Dress Rehearsal production for second grade school groups.
Catering and hospitality will have a part to play, with special meals at Lismore Castle and Dromore Yard, served in the latter by chef Colin Hennessy.