Set in the American Wild West during the Californian gold rush, Puccini’s The Girl of the Golden West (La Fanciulla del West) follows the lives of saloon-bar owner Minnie and a community of miners who struggle to cope with the harsh realities of survival in a bleak environment. This is a place where people have put their lives on hold as they place all their hopes on a better future.

Winner: Richard Jones Director, Outstanding Achievement in Opera, Olivier Awards 2015

Director: Richard Jones
Set Designer: Miriam Beuther
Production Manager: Ed Wilson

Jess needs extra time. She is facing the most important decision of her life: live up to family expectations of university, career and marriage, or follow in the footsteps of her hero David Beckham. When the talented teenager is spotted playing football in Southall, a world of unexpected opportunities opens up before her. But as her sister’s traditional Indian wedding approaches, can she keep her family happy and still follow her dreams?

Director: Gurinder Chadha
Set Designer: Miriam Beuther
Production Manager: Garry Beestone

Rossini’s last opera brings together the ever topical subject of foreign occupation, as stark and oppressive as a jagged Alpine peak, with sublime moments of uplifting hope and serenity. Though better known for his comedies, Rossini reveals the more serious side of his character with a story that twists, turns and plays with our emotions. This production will see Swiss traditional folk costumes set against stiff, grey Austrian uniforms. The beautifully choreographed ballet sequences add to the contrast.

Director: David Pountney
Set Designer: Raimund Bauer
Production Manager: Bob Pagett

The story follows Count Belfiore and the Marchioness Violante Onesti, who were lovers before Belfiore stabbed Violante in a fit of rage.

Director: Frederic Wake Walker
Set Designer: Anthony Mc Donald
Production Manager: Tom Harrison