An article in The Independent describes the experience of Garsington Opera, which has been in existence for 16 years.

Amid the extensive park that already hosts a world-famous cricket ground, the organisers have commissioned an elegant temporary pavilion with space for 600 people to watch the opera and enjoy nature at the same time…

Architect Robin Snell, a musician himself, has created a glass auditorium without walls where the public can hear the birds as they watch the opera and are bathed in sunshine during the first act, before night falls.

The design presented a few challenges for director Duncan, who admitted: "You have to be ingenious. There are no sides, and the first act is in the daylight."

But for spectators the result is magical, with the pavilion and the performers lit up against the dusky sky.

However, operas like this are not for those who are watching their pennies.  According to the article, it is rare if a ticket costs less than 113 euros ($160).  Ninety per cent of the tickets for Garsington sold even before the festival began, while those hoping to get on the membership list for the Glyndebourne festival (which will give them priority booking) will have to wait 10 years.

But the article does go on to say that there are other outdoor operas that cost less (and for which you do not have to dress formally), such as Opera Holland Park in central London, which puts on seven operas a year.  Its tickets start at 12 pounds and they often give free admission to young people and seniors.

To see the full article about these different festivals, click here!

Photo: Garsington Opera Festival