Open-air opera returns to Borde Hill the summer as leading touring company Wild Arts presents Mozart’s comic masterpiece, The Marriage of Figaro – a sparkling tale of secret lovers, clever disguises and theatrical mischief.
Taking place on the South Lawn and set against the magical backdrop of the Elizabethan House, this enchanting outdoor production is sung in English and performed in period costume accompanied by a world-class orchestral ensemble.
Directed by international opera star Danielle de Niese, the story begins on the morning of Figaro and Susanna’s wedding, only to be derailed by mistaken identities, scheming servants and a Count with a wandering eye. As their employer, the amorous Count Almaviva, sets his sights on the bride-to-be, a single day of comic chaos unfolds. Through quick wit and ingenious plotting, servants outmanoeuvre their masters and love triumphs against the odds.
From the fizzing overture to the heart-stopping beauty of “Dove sono” and a jubilant finale, The Marriage of Figaro shows Mozart at his most playful and profound. Fast, funny and full of heart, it is a dazzling blend of comedy and humanity, set to music that remains utterly captivating.
Join us for an unforgettable summer evening of music under the stars.
Wild Arts (★★★★ The Guardian, ★★★★★ Opera Now)
Picnics & Seating
You’re welcome to arrive from 5.30pm to set up on the South Lawn, prior to the performance beginning at 7.00pm. Feel free to bring your own food, drinks, rugs, and picnic chairs.
As you will be seated in your picnic layout for the performance, we kindly ask that you avoid very high-backed chairs or parasols so as not to obstruct the view of those behind you.
Ropes will be laid on the ground to differentiate the pricing areas.
Pre-bookable Dinner at Restaurant Isca
To make your evening even more special, book a seasonal three-course pre-performance dinner at Restaurant Isca.
On the night, guests will be invited to choose from two starters, two main courses and two desserts. The dishes listed below are indicative of style and seasonal direction rather than a fixed offering.
– £50 per person to include a welcome drink on arrival, served from 5.00pm, or 5.15pm
Starter
– Cured Chalk Stream trout, beetroot, pumpkin seed, pickled magnolia
– Salt-baked beetroot tartar, pumpkin seed, apple balsamic, whipped ricotta
Main
– Newhaven cod, Market Garden peas & broad beans, grilled lettuce
– Market Garden courgette, almond, peas & broad beans, mint
All main courses are served with miso-glazed new potatoes and garden salad
Dessert
– Strawberry & verbena parfait, oat & brown butter crumb
– J.Cocoa dark chocolate mousse, buckwheat, preserved blackberry
Additional wine and drinks may be purchased on the night.
Please advise of any dietary requirements when booking – these can be accommodated with advance notice.
About: Restaurant Isca works with Borde Hill’s own farm and trusted local producers, guided by biodynamic principles and the rhythm of the seasons. As such, the menu will evolve as the opera date approaches, reflecting what is freshest and at its best from the farm and surrounding fields.
Pre-Opera Grazing Boxes
Book a delicious pre-opera Grazing Box, ready for collection when the gates open at 5:30pm, allowing plenty of time to relax in the Garden before the performance begins at 7:00pm.
– £20 for an Individual Grazing Box, or £40 for a Couple Grazing Box
Our Grazing Boxes include:
A selection of British cheeses
Charcuterie meats
Sausage rolls
Houmous
Nocellara olives
Dried fruit and nuts
Fresh cut fruit and vegetables
Chutney
Crackers
Sweet treats – brownie bites / macarons
A vegetarian option is available on request. Please advise of any dietary requirements when booking – these can be accommodated with advance notice.
Performance Information
Entry
The performance will take place on the South Lawn. Access will be through Visitor Reception, located at the top of the drive.
Accessibility
The majority of paths in the formal Garden are step-free and accessible to visitors with restricted mobility. Gentle slopes, hard surfaces and gravel paths provide good wheelchair access. Please note that access to the performance area on the South Lawn is across grass. Flexible seating is available within the performance marquee on the South Lawn and can be adjusted to accommodate wheelchair users. Please get in touch with us at [email protected] to let the team know your requirements. Assistance dogs are allowed.
Parking
Please park in the visitor car park. The opera will take place on the South Lawn, approximately 100m from the car park. Cars may not be left in the car park overnight. The car park surface is gravelled with designated spaces for blue badge holders located close to the Garden entrance.
Toilets
Toilets, including an accessible toilet, are located at the reception building.
Dress Code
There is no formal dress code for the event, but the production team will be dressed Summer Smart. The event will go ahead regardless of the weather, so please do check the forecast beforehand and come dressed appropriately. Umbrellas will be permitted.
Booking Terms
The production is open–air and performed outside, uncovered. Audience members therefore accept that weather, climate, temperature, light conditions, and various other elements may impact on the performance. In case of rain outdoor performances will continue. All tickets are non-refundable. In the event of cancellation due to exceptionally bad weather or other extenuating circumstances alternative arrangements shall be made.
Smoking is not permitted within the Garden
No photography is allowed during the performance
