The opposite view at each performance: what the performers see from the stage, when looking at the audience and the orchestra. Picture courtesy Opera Holland Park
A Kensington Society event:
Opera Holland Park – a view behind the scenes
When: Tuesday 7 May 2026, 10.45 – 12.30
Where: the Holland House ruin, Holland Park
Opera Holland Park has grown into one of London’s top class independent opera companies and its summer festival, based in the Holland House courtyard, takes place right in the heart of Kensington.
We have been lucky enough to persuade the opera’s boss, James Clutton, to give 30 of us a tour of the theatre at the very beginning of the season. As well as giving us a chance to find out what happens behind the scenes we will hear how the opera company has grown from its first and only production in 1996, to this year’s three month offering of a variety of opera, song, and dance. James has been a key part of this development, first joining as assistant to founding director, Michael Volpe, in 2000. Since then he has worked to turn the company into the world class festival it is today.
The plan is to gather at the foot of steps leading up to the auditorium from 10.45 for 11.00 when James will meet us and take us into the auditorium. Do join us for what promises to be a fascinating visit!
Please note: The maximum size of our group will be 30 persons.
Members £20.00, non-members £30.00
Not a member?
It’s only £20 for a whole year. If you want to take advantage of the lower membership price, just become a member online first, via our membership page, before booking your ticket below.
Online booking
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We will meet up at 10.45am at the foot of steps leading up to the auditorium.
Like a circus coming to town, Opera Holland Park erects its white canopies inside the Holland House ruin each spring and they don’t come back until the autumn. Picture courtesy Opera Holland Park
What our visit will not include: one of Opera Holland Park’s magnificent performances. Picture courtesy Opera Holland Park
Page published 15/04/2026
