Explore Cumbria's myths and legends in new Penrith opera

The production, titled Kings, Witches, Lovers, and Souls – a Compass of Cumbrian Legends, is the latest from the Cumbria Opera Group.

Expected to entertain audiences at Penrith Playhouse, it will feature home-grown talent making a name in the wider opera world.

Soprano Eleanor McIntosh of Kendal, mezzo-soprano Anna Cooper of Kirkby Lonsdale, and Carlisle baritone Jonathan Hill will sing the stories of old Cumbria.

The audience will be immersed in legendary haunts, from the ruined abbeys and enchanted stone circles of Eden to the Lakes and the Dales.

Penrith Playhouse is ready! (Image: Google Street View)

Ms McIntosh is thrilled to be part of the production.

She said: "Having sung in different places around the world, it feels like a real full-circle moment to be Cumbrian and singing a Cumbrian opera here.

"It’s a wonderful feeling!"

The opera pays tribute to the county's unique folktale heritage.

The story, lyrics and music are the work of composer Jen Hartley.

She acknowledged the influence of the county's world-famous natural setting, from the hills and water to the weather.

Ms Hartley explained: "If a story is tied to a place, that physical context will have affected the experiences of every character.

"So the use of language was really important.

"Once you have that, the mood is set, and the music follows."

Joe Davies, the conductor and artistic director of Cumbria Opera Group, also hails from Cumbria.

He couldn’t contain his excitement regarding the upcoming event.

He said: "Cumbria Opera Group was created to bring world-class opera to the UK's most beautiful county.

"And what more exciting way to celebrate the county’s myths and legends than by setting them to music."

Kings, Witches, Lovers, and Souls will run at Penrith Playhouse from Friday, August 30 at 7.30pm to Saturday, August 31 at 7.30pm.

For tickets, visit the Cumbria Opera Group website: www.cumbriaoperagroup.com/whatson2024.