Opera at Kylemore Abbey 2025
Friends of the Vocal Arts present their annual evening of opera at beautiful Kylemore Abbey on Saturday the 27th September 2025, in aid of the Veronica Dunne International Singing Competition.
The concert will take place in Kylemore Abbey’s new monastery building and will feature performances by some of Ireland’s most distinguished artists: soprano Kelli Ann Masterson, tenor Conor Prendiville, and pianist Dearbhla Collins.
Audiences may look forward to a sparkling programme of song and opera favourites in the heart of Connemara. Included with each ticket is a wine and canapés reception prior to the concert. Tickets are on sale now!
Tickets: €70
Where to purchase: Eventbrite or by contacting vdiscompetition@gmail.com. Please be advised that Eventbrite booking fees will apply.
Summer Festival of Opera
A mini day-long festival celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Veronica Dunne International Singing Competition
12.00 Noon – Cushion Concert
Opera is Fun!
Designed for families with children aged 5-10 but all welcome
Tickets: €10 per adult (up to 2 children free per adult, all other children €5 each)
2.30pm
An Afternoon at the Opera
VDISC’s annual Killruddery event, Opera in the Orangery with new up-and-coming Irish opera singers; interval wine and canapés reception on the lawn
Tickets: €75
7.00 pm – Wine Reception
7.45 pm – Gala Evening
30th Anniversary Gala Concert
International acclaimed mezzo-soprano, Tara Erraught and Artistic Director, Dearbhla Collins present a scintillating evening of song and opera favourites
Tickets: €50
Book tickets: vdiscompetition@gmail.com or www.killruddery.com
Venue: Southern Cross, Bray, Co. Wicklow, A98 W9F2
Come early to enjoy the beautiful gardens, drop by the Tea Rooms or if you wish to get lunch book in at Killruddery Grain Store or Pizza Shed – for bookings https://killruddery.com/pages/
Gala Dinner for Opera Lovers 2025
As we celebrate the 30th anniversary and the success of the 11th Veronica Dunne International Singing Competition in January 2025, we are delighted to again host our Gala Dinner for Opera Lovers. One of the highlights of our annual calendar is this glamorous Black Tie event which contributes to building our Fund for the next Competition in 2028 and our ongoing work in support of young singers. We look forward to returning to the historic and ambient surroundings of the Honorable Society of Kings Inns, Constitution Hill, Dublin 7, courtesy of the Bar of Ireland and hope that you can join us. Tickets include wine reception, dinner and entertainment provided by two wonderful sopranos, Ava Dodd & Jade Phoenix and Mairead Hurley on piano.
2025 Competition Final
Join us for the 2025 Competition Final, where our six finalists will perform with the National Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Wyn Davies.
Opera at Kylemore Abbey
A wonderful evening of opera in the glorious Kylemore Abbey, with performances by Ireland’s top talent, featuring Anne Marie Gibbons and Rory Musgrave.
Tickets €65 (booking fees may apply) including wine & canapés. Available via Eventbrite and vdiscompetition@gmail.com
Please note that there is a short walk from the car park to the Abbey and access to Fordham Hall is up a stairs without wheelchair access, if you have any concerns re this do not hesitate to contact us.