Outdoor Opera House returns for 2026!

Buxton Opera House is pleased to announce the return of Outdoor Opera House, a vibrant four-day open-air arts festival packed with fantastic workshops and performances for all ages. Presented in association with Buxton Civic Association (BCA), the ‘pay-what-you-can’ festival runs from Fri 31 Jul – Mon 3 Aug in the beautiful surroundings of Grin Low Woods (Buxton Country Park) and Poole’s Cavern.

Jointly commissioned by Buxton Opera House and BCA, the project aims to inspire creativity, boost well being, and foster a deeper connection with nature. This year’s extensive line-up includes natural crafts, yoga, singing, drama, creative writing, and more, led by a talented array of local artists. A highlight of the weekend will be two special performances of But Life Finds a Way, Doesn’t It? by the BOH Creates Senior Young Company, a piece specially written in their writing group and inspired by the history and surroundings of Grin Low Woods and Poole’s Cavern.

This marks the third major collaboration between the two charities, building on the success of Leave No Trace in 2024 and the inaugural Outdoor Opera House in 2025.

Kerry Allsop, Creative Learning Director at Buxton Opera House, commented:

“We are absolutely thrilled that Outdoor Opera House is returning for a second year. The response to last summer’s programme of events was overwhelming, and it was wonderful to hear how much of a boost the festival gave to everyone’s mental health and wellbeing. We are building on that brilliant momentum with an even bigger and more ambitious line-up and hope there is something for everyone to enjoy across the four days.

“Thanks to generous support from Arts Council England, we are providing free tickets across all activities, with an option to ‘pay what you can’ if you are able to do so. Our continued partnership with Buxton Civic Association is vital to help break down the barriers of a conventional theatre space, allowing people to explore their creativity in the natural world.”

Andrea Bowler, Head of Operations at BCA and Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Outdoor Opera House back to Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park for a second year, building on the success of what has become an incredibly rewarding partnership.

“As charities deeply rooted in the local community, we are passionate about creating opportunities that inspire creativity and encourage more people to discover and enjoy Buxton’s remarkable natural environment. This event celebrates the connection between the arts, community and the outdoors, while highlighting the vital role the partnership between Buxton Civic Association and Buxton Opera House plays in supporting education, wellbeing and cultural engagement for people of all ages.”

With thanks to the generous support of Arts Council England.

Outdoor Opera House runs at Buxton Opera House Fri 31 Jul – Mon 3 Aug. Tickets are available here.