Here’s everything you need to know about Opera North’s current season – including what’s on, how to get tickets from just £10 and what to expect.
The opera is a fantastic experience for music, drama and theatre lovers around the world. Bringing people together with mesmerising performances, impressive vocals and exciting costumes leaves the audience on the edge of their seats every single time, regardless of what you’re watching.
Here in Leeds we’re fortunate enough to have Opera North on our doorstep to bring this to life. The company is highly regarded as a leading arts organisation outside London, and this reason alone was enough to put our city on the map as one of the best travel destinations in 2023.
Fancy finding out what all the fuss is about?
Whether you’re looking to dip your toe into the wonderful world of opera or you’re a seasoned professional who’s familiar with the art form, we’ve got you covered with a handy guide to keep you up to date with everything going on at Opera North.
What’s on
Tosca
21 January – 1 April 2023, Leeds Grand Theatre
Opera North have kicked off the season with a bang by bringing to the stage a dazzling portrayal of Puccini’s classic opera, Tosca.
A timeless thriller, this three-part opera takes you on a mesmerising journey of performance and sound that’ll leave you on the edge of your seat. Think passion, blackmail and murder!
You can learn more about Tosca, and how to grab tickets here.
The Cunning Little Vixen
4 February – 1 April 2023, Leeds Grand Theatre
This bittersweet fairy tale will transport you to the depths of the forest and take you on an emotional yet life-affirming journey.
Expect energising, folk-infused melodies sung by a flurry of mischievous creatures who join our protagonist, Vixen Sharp Ears, as she embarks on an adventure to take on the world.
First timers at the opera will absolutely love this option. This production is sung in English (with surtitles too!) so it allows just about everyone to follow the storyline through the heartfelt vocals, as well as the actual performance itself.
You can learn more about The Cunning Little Vixen, and how to grab tickets here.
Ariadne auf Naxos
18 February – 24 March 2023, Leeds Grand Theatre
Directed by multi-award nominated Rodula Gaitanou, this humorous, romantic, and drama-filled production will tell the tale of a bustling 1950s Italian studio where two films are about to be made.
One’s a heartbreaking myth, the other a light-hearted comedy – imagine the mischief that unfolds when disaster strikes and the films suddenly become one…
You can learn more about Ariadne auf Naxos, and how to grab tickets here.
What you need to know before you go
The opera is an all-inclusive, unique, and extraordinary art form which everyone should have the pleasure of experiencing at least once in their life.
Naturally, if you haven’t been to the opera before then of course it can feel daunting but with all the helpful information and options available, it doesn’t have to be.
Opera North does a stellar job of ensuring that it is accessible to everyone: from the ticket prices to the dress code (or lack thereof), anyone can go and enjoy a magical evening full of music, storytelling and of course, drama.
Dress Code
We know what you’re thinking, as soon as you hear the word ‘opera’ you immediately think of ball gowns, tiaras, high heels, and dicky bows but at Opera North, that is simply not the case.
There is no official dress code for Opera North performances, if you fancy dressing up and making a night out of it then feel free to but equally, jeans and a jumper fit right in too. It’s your night so wear what you feel comfortable in.
What to expect
Most operas average between two to three hours in length including an interval where you can stretch your legs and grab a drink if you fancy.
Many operas are performed in their original language (French, German or Italian) but they will always be surtitled, meaning an English translation handily appears on a screen to the side of the stage. So, you don’t have to worry about missing anything or not understanding any juicy parts of the action.
Tickets
Ticket prices range from just £15 to £80.50. Those aged 16-20 can access completely free tickets with Under 30 Members able to grab tickets at a discounted rate of £10 each.
If you want to bring a friend that falls into the same age bracket, they’ll receive the same discounted rate as you. What a winner!
You can find out all about this exciting offer here.
Try it ON
It’s a new year which means if you’ve been thinking about trying something new, then now’s the time.
Opera North’s Try It ON scheme is the perfect opportunity to delve into the world of opera – go in with an open mind and prepare to have all your preconceptions blown out of the water.
So how does it work? For just £20 each you can get your hands on two fantastic tickets to a performance of your choice alongside a tote bag filled with goodies. You’ll also get exclusive offers after the show so that you can continue to enjoy your newfound hobby.
Find out more about the Try It ON scheme here.
Read more: Opera North prepares to bring Italian opera Tosca to life in Leeds
Feature Image – Tom Arber
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