Saturday November 22nd: Handel's Semele from the Royal Opera House Covent Garden
Premiered in 1774, Semele is darkly satirical. This new Royal Opera House production from Oliver Mears considers class, privilege and degradation. Handel specialist Christian Curnyn conducts the Royal Opera House Orchestra and Chorus as Pretty Yende marks her return to Covent Garden in the title role, with Ben Bliss making his House debut as Jupiter and Irish mezzo-soprano Niamh O'Sullivan singing the role of Ino, Semele's sister in this production which was recorded in July 2025.
Saturday November 29th: Irish National Opera's Gala with Sinéad Campbell Wallace
Paul Herriott brings us Irish National Opera's gala evening of powerful and emotional operatic masterpieces in a captivating concert recorded at the National Concert Hall, featuring the exceptional talents of soprano Sinéad Campbell Wallace, tenor Ryan Capozzo and baritone Yngve Søberg, conducted by the dynamic Keri-Lynn Wilson. Paul brings us through the operatic landscapes of Verdi and Wagner with some exhilarating performances.
Saturday December 6th: Metropolitan Opera New York presents Puccini's La Bohème
With its enchanting setting and spellbinding score, the world's most popular opera is as timeless as it is heartbreaking. Franco Zeffirelli's production brings 19th-century Paris to the Met stage as Puccini's young friends and lovers navigate the joy and struggle of bohemian life. Sopranos Juliana Grigoryan is the feeble seamstress Mimì, opposite tenor Stephen Costello as the ardent poet Rodolfo. Daniele Rustioni conducts the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and Chorus in tonight's live broadcast.
