Longhope Opera is an annual Bel Canto festival celebrating emerging talent, set against the idyllic backdrop of the Longhope Estate in Newton Valence, Hampshire. Since 2015, this unique summer event has welcomed several hundred guests each year to its charming grounds for an unforgettable experience of music, nature, and conviviality.
Guests are invited to stroll through the estate’s picturesque gardens while enjoying intimate chamber music performances, and partake in a delightful drinks reception. The evening culminates in a sparkling comic opera, presented by Scherzo Ensemble, followed by a seasonal dinner with stunning views over the South Downs.
Past seasons have featured gala concerts and beloved operatic comedies including The Marriage of Figaro, The Barber of Seville, Il turco in Italia, L’elisir d’amore, La Cenerentola, and Don Pasquale. This summer marks Scherzo Ensemble’s sixth production at Longhope, continuing a tradition that has enchanted audiences since 2019.
To bring each production to life, Scherzo assembles a full company of emerging professionals—singers, musicians, creatives, technical crew, and management. The festival is rooted in a mission to provide vital early career opportunities, empowering young practitioners with hands-on experience while nurturing collaboration and mutual respect across theatrical disciplines.
Longhope would not be possible without the help & support of so many.
We would especially like to thank:
Fergus & Emma Slinger who kindly donate the location for this charitable event.
The whole village of Newton Valence – particularly the NV Social Club committee for making us feel so welcome down at the Village Hall.
All the wonderful people locally who welcome us into their homes, hosting us during production week. Without you, we could not make this happen.
Our Patrons & supporters, who donate so generously to our productions.
Our dedicated team of ad hoc gardeners
Newton Valence Estate Staff
