A company of 50 young performers and creatives from all over the UK will take up residence in Newton Valence for rehearsals and performances of L’elisir d’amore by Donizetti on July 2 and 3 at 4pm.

Longhope Opera is a flourishing annual event held on the beautiful Longhope Estate in Newton Valence. Guests can walk around the grounds and join a drinks reception and outdoor chamber recitals before they are entertained with a comic opera from Scherzo Ensemble.

During a long dining interval guests can enjoy their picnic dinner overlooking the picturesque South Downs.

To produce Longhope Opera, Scherzo Ensemble assembles an entire company – performers, creatives, technical staff and management – of emerging professionals aged under 30.

The central aim is to help young practitioners gain paid professional experience and build their confidence to create and produce projects independently.

Everyone involved also contributes to areas outside their speciality, enhancing team spirit and insight into the artistic process.

Artistic director Matthew O’Keeffe said: “We want to equip musicians with the skills they need to build a career in the 21st century.

“In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry has transformed and shrunk, but we must work together to rebuild a vibrant cultural sector by giving artists the skills and experience they need to succeed, create and bring live performance back to audiences.”

There will also be a special performance for children. Working together with the Hampshire Music Service, Longhope Opera has invited hundreds of children to enjoy the opera and a picnic dinner at the charming estate.

Mr O’Keeffe said: “Our vision is to make new, exciting productions that are accessible to all, and our children’s performances have become a highlight.

“A lot of the children have never seen an opera before and it is such a pleasure to see their faces light up when they realise how entertaining and funny it can be.”

For tickets visit www.longhopesummeropera.com or email [email protected]