Special things to do in Bath & Bradford on Avon this August
Make your 2022 summer an extraordinary one, with enchanting performances and experiences to enjoy. From taking in the magical atmosphere of the Roman Baths to witnessing breathtaking music and storytelling, make your summer evenings in Bath and Bradford on Avon extra special.
La rondine
An evening of exquisite music and storytelling with If Opera
26 | 29 Aug & 1 | 3 Sep
Indulge in beautiful music, and experience a thrilling story of love and heartbreak.
Escape to Belcombe Court for an evening to remember, with an abundance of beautiful gardens to explore before the show, to picnic in (you can bring your own or order one in advance) or unwind with a G&T or bottle of prosecco from the bar.
The performance will then transport you to the colourful locales of Paris and the balmier climes of southern France, as the moving tale of young love unravels. The incredible If Opera company and Bristol Ensemble are ready to mesmerise you with dizzying waltzes, breathtaking choruses, soaring melodies and one of Puccini’s most gorgeous creations - the quartet, ‘Bevo al tuo fresco sorriso’ (I drink to your beautiful smile).
This beautiful opera by Puccini is directed by Bruno Ravella, a former Iford Arts favourite, who joins fresh from extraordinary acclaim for his Rosenkavalier at Garsington in 2021.
If you’re joining for opening night on 26 August, there’s also an exclusive opportunity to enjoy a complimentary masterclass with the Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Limited places available, so booking in advance is advised.
Experience a special evening at Belcombe Court
Roman Baths Torchlit evenings
An unforgettable unique experience
Until 31 August
This summer the Roman Baths are open every night until 10pm, last entry 9pm. By the light of flickering torches, walk on 2000 year old pavements and take in the magical atmosphere.
For these special summertime torchlit evenings, you can unwind, relax, and enjoy a drink from the pop up bar as you immerse yourself in the tranquil setting of the Great Bath – the perfect accompaniment to a visit filled with ancient wonders. The bar will be serving Champagne, sparkling wine and soft drinks.
The Roman Baths is one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe. Once the site of one of the great religious spas of the ancient world; the people of Roman Britain came to the site to worship the goddess Sulis Minerva and bathe in the waters of the natural thermal springs, which still flow with hot water today.
Experience a special evening at the Roman Baths
Phaedra and Minotaur
Ustinov Studio’s evocative evening of music and dance
until 23 August
Taking place in the intimate surroundings of the Ustinov Studio, Phaedra & Minotaur is a sensational double bill from two masters of their art: Benjamin Britten and Kim Brandstrup.
A collaboration with the Royal Opera House, Phaedra by Benjamin Britten is performed by Olivier Award nominee Christine Rice with Richard Hetherington on piano. Benjamin Britten’s final vocal work is a cantata of powerfully intense and erotic drama. On the day of her wedding to Theseus, Phaedra catches sight of his young son Hippolytus. Consumed by lust and longing that she knows cannot be requited, death will be her only escape. The scalding power of Britten's score pushes Phaedra towards her doom in a remarkable and thrilling drama.
The second part of the evening features the world premiere of a newly commissioned dance piece, Minotaur, choreographed by Olivier Award winner Kim Brandstrup, renowned for his work over four decades with the Royal Ballet, New York City Ballet, English National Ballet and Rambert. The piece is performed by Laurel Dalley Smith, Jonathan Goddard and Tommy Franzen.
Experience this evocative evening of music and dance at the Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal Bath
Rita & Il segreto di Susanna
A night of brilliantly witty tales with If Opera’s comedy double bill
27 | 31 August
Experience a duo of one act comedic operas, presenting a glorious representation of married life in one form or another – each with their own dark shadows lurking in the background.
The perfect evening to enjoy with friends, before witnessing the beautiful voices of this year’s ensemble, you can explore gin or a bottle of prosecco from the bar, discover Belcombe Court’s gothic archways, walled garden and sculptures and even enjoy a picnic - bring your own or simply order a Graze Picnic Box from Goodness Grazers of Bath.
Rita, the somewhat tyrannical inn-owner and wife of Peppe is shocked by the return of her former husband Gasparo whom she had thought dead by drowning (he had run away to far-off lands). Gasparo is back to acquire Rita’s death certificate so he can remarry – because he, in turn, thought she had died. In the middle is poor Peppe who wants out, and perhaps Gasparo’s return provides the opportunity?
Il segreto di Susanna (Susanna’s Secret) is a simple comedy of confusions. Conte Gil returns home to the smell of tobacco – and suspects his beautiful wife Susannah has a lover. The outrageous ways in which Gil seeks to discover the existence of another man whilst his wife tries desperately, with the help of their servant, to conceal her real secret, produce a riotous evening suffused with some absolutely gorgeous music. Wolf-Ferrari shot to fame with this perfect little opera and it remains a popular part of the repertoire across the world.
Experience this double bill at Belcombe Court
