summer opera directing programme

the summer programme

‍

BYO has been running a summer programme since the 1980s. The premise is simple – emerging directors, as part of their journey into professionals careers, bring an entire opera to life, rehearsing all the way through to performances. With guidance from established professionals, participants improve their confidence, build stronger professional behaviours in a real-word rehearsal environment, and start to build connections with peers and figures in the wider industry.

‍

The 2027 programme

‍

Our 2027 opera directing programme has two strands:

‍

• Creator strand – in response to emerging directors repeatedly telling us that they need creative opportunities – to flex their muscles and create their own work – we set up the creator strand. There is only one place on offer, and you'll effectively take on the responsibility of the production's director. You'll be ready to tackle a large-scale production, and with professional guidance and advice where you need it, and the resources of a full-scale production, you'll be able to bring your creative vision to life.
• Collaborator strand – you'll take on a more supportive role in the rehearsal room, acting as an assistant director. You'll be able to gain experience and grow your skills in a safe, supportive environment.

‍
Our 2027 programme centres on an inter-disciplinary production of Purcell's Dido & Aeneas. You'll be supported by a professional dancer and choreographer who will offer advise and collaboration, but we're especially interested in applications from people with backgrounds in or experience of dance and physical theatre.

‍

‍

This kind of opportunity does not exist anywhere else for someone in my position... rarely will anyone give a young professional like myself the keys to just create a show of that scale.

‍

who can apply

Anybody is welcome to apply for our opera directing programme – there are no formal entry requirements. Before applying you should think about which strand is most appropriate for you, although you may apply to both. For the creator strand you'll need to show that you have experience with opera as an art form and you're comfortable being in control of a large rehearsal room.

‍

You should make sure you have the right visa arrangements to complete our programmes.

‍

Key dates  

• xxxx October 2026 – applications close
• 10 and 11 November – interviews and working sessions in London
• from December 2026 and into January 2027 – places on our programmes are offered
• July – rehearsals and studio sessions
• 17–20 August – performances at Battersea Arts Centre

‍

financials

To submit an application you'll need to be a member of BYO hub (£33 a year), but taking part in our summer programmes is completely free, and you'll receive a £xxx bursary to help with living costs during your time with us. Creator strand participants may be entitled to enhanced bursaries to support them through their pre-rehearsal work. If you're coming from outside London we may also be able to help you with accommodation.

‍

‍

applications and auditions

To apply, just hit the button at the bottom of this page. There is a single application form for all 2027 programmes for directors – take a look at our Serena Fenwick programme and consider if you want to apply for that at the same time (you won't be able to go back and apply later on).

‍

The application form contains space for a personal statement – if you're applying for the creator strand you should use this space to talk about your ideas and inspirations for a production of Dido and Aeneas.

‍

After the application deadline we will shortlist applicants and invite those successful ones to an interview or working session in London – you'll be told what to expect in that email. If invited, you'll need to attend in person. Offers on places on our programmes will be sent out via email shortly afterwards.