Fairytale magic meets glorious music – fall under the spell of Zemira e Azor this summer!

Praised by Mozart and beloved across Europe, André Grétry’s sparkling yet heartfelt opera was inspired by the charming tale of Beauty and the Beast.  With its radiant score, lively drama and a joyful ending, Zemira e Azor is as touching as it is enchanting.

When the virtuous Zemira offers herself in place of her father as prisoner in the castle of the fearsome Azor, she enters a world of mystery and magic. Cursed by a malevolent fairy, Azor appears as a terrifying beast – and Zemira is at first horrified. Yet, as she looks beyond his outward form, she begins to recognise a spirit of kindness, dignity and nobility. Can her simple love break the spell?

Bampton Classical Opera has earned a national reputation for its vibrant and insightful performances of rarely heard eighteenth-century works. Showcasing some of the finest young professional singers, Bampton delights audiences with stylish productions, superb ensembles and engaging English translations.

Perfect for families and opera newcomers alike, Zemira e Azor combines glorious music with a captivating fairytale, performed in rhyming English – a magical introduction to opera for all ages.

Picnics are welcome in the gardens before the performances at Cokethorpe and during the long interval at Westonbirt.  Excellent picnics are available for advance order at these venues: details will be sent with tickets.

Cokethorpe School is centered on a small Georgian manor house, set in 150 acres of glorious Oxfordshire parkland.  Performances will be in the modern and spacious dining hall, with excellent acoustics.