The Waterperry Opera Festival 2025 opened in spectacular fashion on Friday, 08 August, with a bold and sensual new production of Handel’s Semele.
The fully sold-out performance took place in the stunning setting of the Waterperry amphitheatre, providing the perfect backdrop for this timeless tale of gods and mortals.
Bathed in beautiful sunshine and surrounded by the gardens in full bloom, the festival atmosphere was vibrant and enchanting. Handel’s rich and dramatic score was brought to life with energy and passion, captivating the audience from the very first note.
Leading the impressive cast was Hilary Cronin as Semele, delivering a performance praised for its emotional depth and vocal brilliance. Michael Lafferty embodied Jupiter with charm and authority, while Sophie Goldrick commanded attention as the formidable Juno.
The talented ensemble also featured Nathan Mercieca as Athamas, Sarah Winn as Ino, Phil Wilcox as Cadmus, Louise Fuller as Iris, James Micklethwaite as Apollo, and Masimba Ushe in the dual roles of Somnus and High Priest.
The Waterperry Opera Festival Orchestra, under the expert baton of conductor Bertie Baigent, provided a vibrant and nuanced accompaniment that enhanced every moment of the drama.
Behind the scenes, director Rebecca Meltzer’s visionary production balanced sensuality and myth with fresh theatricality, while Jennifer Gregory’s exquisite set and costume designs perfectly complemented the natural splendour of the amphitheatre.
Lighting designer Catja Hamilton sculpted mood and atmosphere with precision, and movement director Alexandria McCauley infused the performance with dynamic physical storytelling.
The involvement of young artist assistant director Molly Owen highlighted the festival’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
The seamless production was supported by senior producer Guy Verrall-Withers and assistant producer Vivian Stolt, with senior production manager Tom Nickson and production manager Ben Nickson ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Musical preparation was led by head of music Ashley Beauchamp and répétiteur Joseph Beesley, crafting a flawless musical journey. Intimacy coordinator Rachel Wise and sound engineer Niccolo Conti completed the dedicated team delivering a respectful, immersive, and sonically rich experience.
Following Semele’s stunning debut, the festival continued with the opening of Mozart’s Don Giovanni the very next day, alongside a rich programme of events and family-friendly experiences throughout the week.
With such an extraordinary start, the 2025 Waterperry Opera Festival firmly established itself as one of the cultural highlights of the summer, where the magic of live opera intertwined beautifully with the natural beauty of Waterperry’s gardens.
For those who missed the opening, there is still time to immerse yourself in the festival’s spectacular offerings and enjoy the unique blend of myth, music, and nature that defines Waterperry Opera Festival.
