About Us

A Voice for Everyone

At York Opera, we believe opera shouldn’t be elitist.

Opera is fun, joyful, and social, and we want to bring it to the York Community, without the snobbery.

Since 1966, we’ve welcomed performers, creatives, and audiences of all backgrounds to explore, enjoy, and create opera together—on stage, behind the scenes, and in the heart of York

What We Do

We put on full-scale productions with chorus members, soloists, costume designers, set builders, and musicians—all from the local community, all united by the thrill of putting on a great show. And unlike most hobbies, you get to share that experience with their families and friends in the audience

But it’s not just about those on stage. Every performance gives the audience a night to remember—something new, bold, and bursting with energy. Whether they come out of curiosity or to support someone they know, they leave having discovered something special happening in their community.

“Puts to shame some of the performances I’ve seen on the London stage”

— Alan Gillott, YorkMix

What People Say

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

Laurie Payton
Soloist - Soprano
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

Jamie Kokot
Chorus Member - Baritone
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

Lindsey Beumer
Set Designer
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

Keith Finley
First Time Opera-goer