OperaFirst
Our OperaFirst projects are open to both Primary and Secondary schools, and aim to introduce the world of opera through an in-school workshop and performance at Garsington Opera. These projects give the opportunity for a new generation of young people to learn about and to help demystify the wonderful world of opera.
Our 2026 workshops are now full. Express an interest to get involved in 2027!
Would you like your school to get involved with Garsington Opera?
The OperaFirst Secondary and Primary projects are predominantly offered to state schools closest to Garsington Opera, HP14 3YP, but we can accommodate schools up to approximately 25 miles away depending on demand. If your school is further away please contact us to see if it would be possible to take part.
OperaFirst Secondary
What to expect
OperaFirst gives an exceptional opportunity to a new generation of young people to study musical and dramatic themes of an opera through an in-school workshop before experiencing a full-scale performance at Wormsley. Ordinarily this is a schools’ performance, specially put on to offer our young understudy cast the valuable opportunity to perform with orchestra to a warm and enthusiastic audience. We are passionate about introducing young people to the wonderful and varied genre of opera and our teams enjoy collaborating and exchanging ideas with pupils on arts projects that wouldn’t ordinarily happen in their school.
La traviata
The tragic story of Violetta, a glamorous party girl who falls in love with a young man, Alfredo. But love isn’t easy when society and secrets get in the way. With powerful music and heartbreaking drama, this opera shows how love can both heal and hurt.
Format
A director is joined by a composer and a professional singer to deliver intensive one-day workshops using the successful ‘Create an Opera’ workshop format. Starting with warm-ups and team building activities, the whole group then explores the music and story, devising their own music, words and movements.
La traviata OperaFirst takes place on Wednesday 15 July 2026 in the late afternoon/early evening, finishing by c.9pm.
OperaFirst Primary
What to expect
We are continuing to offer our bespoke Primary OperaFirst performance, including a 1-hour interactive performance at Wormsley guided by a presenter, after its successful launch in 2023. The children sing songs that they have learnt in their workshop as a massed chorus and watch scenes from the opera. The presenter narrates the show, inviting students to join in sections with the singers, explore the orchestra, and get an insight into what is happening backstage. It is a fun and interactive experience and wonderful trip to the opera!
Il ritorno d’Ulisse (The Return of Ulysses)
Penelope, a clever and loyal queen waits for her husband, Ulisse, to come home after many years. While others try to steal her throne, Penelope stays strong. Will Ulisse return in time? A tale of courage, love and hope!
Format
A director is joined by a composer and a professional singer to deliver intensive one-day workshops using the successful ‘Create an Opera’ workshop format. Starting with warm-ups and team building activities, the whole group then explores the music and story, devising their own music, words and movements.
Il ritorno d’Ulisse OperaFirst takes place on Tuesday 23 June 2026 during the school day.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss the project, please contact learning@garsingtonopera.org.
