Donizetti’s The Elixir Of Love
July 31st 2025
Enjoy a rare opportunity to hear Donizetti’s rollicking opera in the dramatic surroundings of Owlpen, brought to you buy the critically-acclaimed Wild Arts
This isn’t just any production; it’s sung in English by a dream cast of exceptional singers, accompanied by a chamber orchestra of 10 top musicians. Directed by Guido Martin-Brandis, designed by Sophie Lincoln, and conducted by Orlando Jopling, this production promises to be another remarkable experience for opera aficionados and newbies alike, building on the success of last year’s performance of The Magic Flute.
Wild Arts is a charity dedicated to making music accessible, fresh, and enjoyable for everyone. They are passionate about innovating and reimagining opera to create vibrant, engaging productions that resonate with a wide audience.
Donizetti’s rollicking comedy is light-hearted and romantic with humorous themes, set in a 1950’s Italian sea-side town. Guido Martin-Brandis directs the hit production with a fabulous cast led by Galina Averina, a mischievous new translation from Joseph Morris, and a sparkling new orchestration specially made for the fine chamber musicians of the Wild Arts Ensemble.
The performance will take place in the Pole Barn, made using traditional roundwood timber framing techniques using larch from the Owlpen valley; a lovely, intimate space with perfect acoustics for live music.
There will be a long interval for picnics, which you can bring yourselves, or we can provide them for you. We’ll also be serving pizzas and barbecue food, pre-booked in advance.
Tickets will be strictly limited to 150, so do book early to secure your place.
There is a discount for groups of six guests.
Event Plan
You are welcome to arrive from 5pm to set up your picnic in the gardens, and bring food, drink, rugs, chairs, tables, friends, and candelabras.
The performance will start at 6pm, with a 90-minute picnic interval at approximately 7pm before Act II starts at 8.30pm.
Curtain down will be at approximately 9.30pm and you are welcome to stay after the show to enjoy a drink with the stars, under the stars.
If you would like to order a table in our marquee, or reserve drinks or pizzas for the interval, please contact the team on hello@owlpen.com.