The Merry Widow at Opera Holland Park
Thursday 19 June, 18:00 – 22:30
This event is supported by Opera Holland Park
Join us for a magical early summer night at the opera. We will sit under an outdoor canopy, set against the stunning backdrop of the ruins of the historic Holland House for the spectacle of Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow.
Prior to the performance, we will enjoy an exclusive indoor reception with Charles Mackay CBE (MBA 69), former Chair of the opera’s trustees and Member of the INSEAD Advisory Council, in the Ensemble Bar. There will be delicious wine and substantial canapés served so no need to plan dinner. The performance will take place under an open-sided canopy, so do bring a warm layer.
Lehár’s delicious comedy of bankruptcy, infidelity, social climbing and the rekindling of romance between two old flames receives a new spin in the first of two co-productions between Opera Holland Park, Scottish Opera and D’Oyly Carte Opera in the 2025 Season. With his family’s finances on the verge of collapse, Zeta must engineer a marriage between the playboy Danilo and Hanna, once considered too low-born to be Danilo’s bride but now a very wealthy and very independent widow. Against a backdrop of lavishly themed parties, spectacular dances, political intrigue and a subplot of brewing romance between Zeta’s wife, Valencienne, and her hapless suitor Camille, Hanna and Danilo begin to fall in love once more, now a little older and a great deal wiser.
This is a new co-production by Opera Holland Park, Scottish Opera and D’Oyly Carte Opera with new translation by John Savournin (book) and David Eaton (lyrics). Performed by the Orchestra of Scottish Opera and the Chorus from Scottish Opera and featuring Paula Sides Alex Otterburn, Rhian Lois and William Morgan, amongst others.
Tickets are limited so do book early. Bookings close on 4 June, see bookings and refunds below.