OperaFirst

OperaFirst gives an exceptional opportunity to a new generation of young people to explore the musical and dramatic themes of an opera through in-school workshops, before attending a full-scale performance at Wormsley. 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. Everyone is treated as professionals in our schools' projects - we create extraordinary work whilst having lots of fun. Our creative teams comprise professional directors, singers and composers who specialise in opera outreach work. Our OperaFirst programme always complements a focus opera from the forthcoming season and offers opportunities to attend performances or dress rehearsals at Wormsley. All OperaFirst participants are invited to watch a specially-staged schools' performance on the main stage at Wormsley, featuring our Alvarez Young Artists in the principal roles. They are introduced to the backstage departments of Garsington Opera, giving them an insight into the technical aspects behind each production, including stage management, costumes and makeup. Many participants have now joined our Youth Company.