Opera Holland Park has taken the decision to reduce its capacity for the 2021 season by 60% by reimagining their stage and auditorium in order to “create a dynamic and exciting performance space” that will “offer maximum safety for audiences and performers”.

Working with set designer Takis, they will reduce the capacity from 1000 to 400 seats. The venue will ensure social distancing by using individual chairs that can be moved to accommodate each ‘household bubble’ size and the move will also increase step-free access.

Takis’ design makes use of sustainable materials, which the company said “reflect the natural beauty of the theatre’s setting in Holland Park and a programme of five operas in which nature plays a central role”.

They have announced that there will be five full productions staged over the course of 2021, with The Marriage of Figaro kicking off the season on 1 June. Rodula Gaitanou’s La Traviata and The Cunning Little Vixen will then follow. 

Opera Holland Park have pledged that although they will operate with a reduced capacity, they will keep the annual percentage of free and accessible tickets. 

Adele Thomas will make her Opera Holland Park debut by directing Mascagni’s L’Amico Fritz, and the main season will be closed by a co-production of The Pirates of Penzance with Charles Court Opera.

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