Opera Brava Returns to Borde Hill To Present:
Puccini’s ‘Tosca’
Following almost a decade of captivating audiences at Borde Hill, acclaimed touring company Opera Brava returns next summer with Puccini’s dramatic masterpiece, Tosca – a gripping tale of love, betrayal and sacrifice, set against the turmoil of wartime Rome.
Taking place on the South Lawn, against the magnificent backdrop of Borde Hill’s Elizabethan House, this enchanting outdoor production features period sets and costumes, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Sung in English and performed by leading national and international opera singers, it promises an unforgettable evening of music beneath the summer sky.
Join us for an evening of world-class opera under the stars, as Borde Hill exclusively hosts Opera Brava’s only two performances of 2027.
Performance Description
Passionate, powerful and deeply moving, Puccini’s Tosca is one of opera’s most gripping tragedies, combining a compelling story of love, jealousy and political intrigue with some of the most beautiful and dramatic music ever written for the stage.
Set in Rome during the 1940s, against the backdrop of the Second World War, Opera Brava’s production brings a fresh perspective to Puccini’s timeless story. At its heart is the celebrated singer Floria Tosca, whose love for the artist Mario Cavaradossi draws her into a dangerous web of political conflict, deception and betrayal. As the ruthless chief of police, Baron Scarpia, closes in, Tosca is forced to make an impossible choice, with devastating consequences.
From its soaring arias to moments of dramatic intensity, Puccini’s magnificent score moves seamlessly between tenderness, passion and tragedy, heightening every twist of the unfolding story. With its cinematic musical storytelling and an unexpected twist in the final scene, Opera Brava’s production promises a powerful and emotionally charged experience.
A compelling blend of music and drama, Tosca is an unforgettable opera for both newcomers and seasoned opera lovers alike.
About Opera Brava
With over 35 years of experience bringing opera to audiences across the country, Opera Brava is one of Britain’s leading touring opera companies. The company has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Borde Hill since 2018, bringing memorable open-air productions to the estate.
Bringing together accomplished national and international singers with experience at prestigious opera houses, including English National Opera and Covent Garden, this acclaimed production, directed by Bronek Pomorski, captures the passion, intensity and emotional power of Puccini’s music.
Picnics & Seating
You’re welcome to arrive from 6.00pm to set up on the South Lawn, prior to the performance beginning at 7.30pm. 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.
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.
– £60 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.
Opera Grazing Boxes
Available as an optional extra when booking tickets
Enhance your evening by adding a delicious Opera Grazing Box to your ticket booking. Ready to collect when the gates open at 6:00pm, it’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the Garden before the performance begins at 7:30pm.
– £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
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. 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. 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
