Company of Amal and the Night Visitors,  2023

About Us

Founded by Brian Cresswell in 1974, Somerset Opera is a registered charity based in Taunton.

We aim to be a cohesive, dynamic and inspiring force for good within the artistic landscape of the South West.  We believe in the power of music to bring people together and recognise the value of what opera can do for communities as well as individuals. 

We embrace a combined professional and community model. We mount in house productions performed and toured locally by our members and major productions which are larger in scale and often welcome guest soloists.

We acknowledge that everyone has something to contribute and do not discriminate based on level of experience, training, or background. We recognise that diversity is a strength and believe that the right people for the project are the ones that want to be there.

OUR MISSION

1. To create exceptional operatic entertainment and artistic experiences that serve, engage, and entertain.
2. To create professional work for a diverse range of artists living in and from the South West.
3. To offer career pathways and mentorship to those who aspire to work professionally but have limited opportunities because of rural isolation or socio-economic disadvantage.
4. To create performance opportunities for our members who may enjoy all the benefits of such an experience.
5. To be an opera company Somerset can be proud of.

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Somerset Opera is delighted to support the Somerset Song Prize (SSP). The SSP is a biennial national singing competition for young people aged 18 to 26.

Officers

Creative Director & Chair - Helena Payne

Vice Chair - Stephanie Berner

Musical Director - Sam Baker

Treasurer - Eleanor Coton

Committee Members - 
Lance Moir
Harold Meade
Amy Down
Josephine Cresswell
​Sue Richards

WSG Performance Candids, 2024