Saturday, 25 July 2026
Kirsty Corbett speaks with the team from Buxton Opera House and Buxton Civic Association as they announce the return of Outdoor Opera House 2026 — a vibrant, four‑day open‑air arts festival running from Fri 31 July to Mon 3 August in the beautiful surroundings of Grin Low Woods and Poole’s Cavern.
Presented as a ‘pay‑what‑you‑can’ event, the festival is jointly commissioned by Buxton Opera House and BCA, aiming to inspire creativity, boost wellbeing and deepen people’s connection with nature. This year’s expanded programme includes natural crafts, yoga, singing, drama, creative writing and more, led by local artists.
A standout moment of the weekend will be two performances of But Life Finds a Way, Doesn’t It?, created and performed by the BOH Creates Senior Young Company, inspired by the history and landscape of Grin Low Woods and Poole’s Cavern.
The team reflect on the success of previous collaborations — Leave No Trace in 2024 and the inaugural Outdoor Opera House in 2025 — and share how Arts Council England’s support has enabled free tickets across all activities, with an optional pay‑what‑you‑can contribution.
They also discuss the importance of breaking down barriers to traditional theatre spaces, encouraging people of all ages to explore creativity outdoors and celebrate Buxton’s remarkable natural environment.
Book free slots now at buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/outdoor-opera-house.