Download pdf - OPERA, BALLET CLASSICAL MUSIC HOLIDAYS · theatre for the ballet performance in the evening. SAT 29 JUN Today is a full day excursion to the outer regions of Warsaw, where the beauty

TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS

www.travelforthearts.com +44 20 8799 8350 [email protected]

SPRING, SUMMER & AUTUMN FESTIVALS 2019

OPERA, BALLET CLASSICAL MUSIC

HOLIDAYSNEW TOURS FOR 2019

ARTS & CULTURE IN MINSK

GARSINGTON OPERA & THE GETTY LIBRARY

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OPERA & ZARZUELA IN BILBAO

CHOPIN & BALLET IN WARSAW

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welcome to the world of

OPERA, DANCE, CLASSICAL MUSIC & ARTS HOLIDAYS

welcome

Tel: 020 8799 8350 | Email: [email protected] | www.travelforthearts.com

With over 30 years experience, Travel for the Arts understands what it takes to put together quality tours that offer unique and unforgettable experiences for opera, ballet and classical music lovers.

Once again, we have taken exceptional care in programming a number of specialized group tours that will enable you to visit countries old and new, whilst experiencing a choice of the best that the performing arts world has to offer. In this 2019 Spring, Summer and Autumn brochure you will find a wide range of destinations and musical moments that we hope will tempt you.

Holidays are a special time and here at Travel for the Arts we aspire to make yours one to remember!

CALENDAR OF TOURSDate Tour 15 – 20 Mar Czech Culture, Castles and Classical Music 61 – 6 May Omaggio a Palladio Festival 720 – 24 May Opera and Zarzuela in Bilbao 824 – 27 May Opera and Ballet in Riga 926 – 31 May Arts and Culture in Minsk 1030 May – 2 Jun Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 113 – 7 Jun Cultural Feasts in Tallinn 127 – 11 Jun The Salzburg Whitsun Festival 1310 – 17 Jun Mountains, Museums and Music in Georgia 14 – 1514 – 17 Jun The Opéra Royal at Versailles 1627 Jun – 1 Jul Chopin and Ballet in Warsaw 1728 Jun – 1 Jul Swiss Alps Classics Festival 186 – 13 Jul Opera in Historical Sofia and Plovdiv 1913 – 16 Jul 40th Anniversary at Buxton Festival Opera 2013 – 17 Jul Festivities in Aix-en-Provence 2113 – 17 Jul Verdi in Spain 2218 – 22 Jul Garsington Opera and the Getty Library 2320 – 24 Jul Bregenz Festival – a unique opera stage 241 – 5 Aug Macerata Opera Festival 252 – 5 Aug A Celebration of Plácido Domingo in Verona 26 – 2717 – 21 Aug The Rossini Opera Festival in Pesaro 2828 Aug – 2 Sep The Salzburg Festival 2910 – 14 Sep Outstanding artists at the Enescu Festival 30

in Bucharest 2 – 6 Oct The Verdi Festival in Parma 31

TOURS IN ASSOCIATION WITH CARPENTER HOLIDAYS

21 – 25 Mar Printemps des Arts in Monte Carlo 32 – 3329 May – 2 Jun Bergfrühling Festival in Ossiach 34 – 35

SPRING, SUMMER AND AUTUMN FESTIVALS 2019We have taken great care in selecting for you the following programme of opera, ballet and classical music taking place throughout the Spring, Summer and Autumn of 2019 in the UK, Europe and beyond.

CONTENTS Page

Tours with late availability 4Tours 5 – 35À la Carte information 36 – 37

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All tours mentioned in this brochure (as well as additional tours) are available to view online at www.travelforthearts.comMany of our holidays are filled very quickly after the brochure launch. Sometimes they are fully booked after appearing on our website or as advance information in our Newsletter, so we would encourage you to book early if you are interested in one of our group tours.

MAKE AN ENQUIRYYou can make an enquiry about one of our tours in three ways:• Call us on 020 8799 8350 • Email [email protected] • Visit our website www.travelforthearts.com and make

a booking enquiry by going into the tour and completing the Booking Enquiry Form.

If space is available on the tour of your choice you will be given a 7-day option.

COMPLETE A BOOKING FORMOnce you have your option, we require a completed booking form. This can be downloaded from our website http://www.travelforthearts.com/how-to-book/ When you return your booking form we require your deposit or full payment (see Late bookings). You must read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.

LATE BOOKINGS If you book within 8 weeks of departure, you will need to provide a credit/debit card number or send us a cheque for the full amount of the holiday.

BOOKING REFERENCEWhen you make an enquiry you will be given a booking reference. Please quote your booking reference on all subsequent correspondence.

MOBILITYPlease note that most tours involve walking tours of approximately 3 hours. If you have difficulty with mobility you may be asked to sit out some of the activities on the itinerary.

PERFORMANCE TICKETSAll performance tickets are subject to confirmation. This is due to the differences in the way opera houses administer their ticket sales and the limited availability of certain performances. We will inform you at the point of booking when we expect to receive confirmation of the performance tickets; in most cases this will be 12 weeks prior to departure, although this can vary depending on the destination.

SEATING ARRANGEMENTSFor all included performances we obtain best available tickets (as specified by the venue). However many of the older theatres in Europe have non-staggered rows, little rake, cramped legroom and sometimes poor sightlines. Please be assured that we do our best to request the best available tickets for all performances but that, on occasion, allowances might need to be made for the age and layout of the venue.

OPENING HOURSOur office hours are Monday – Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm. We are closed on UK public holidays. There is an answerphone and we will return any out-of-hours telephone calls on the next working day if you leave your name and telephone number.

BOOKING DETAILS

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All information is available on our website www.travelforthearts.com.

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme under ATOL no.2178. When you pay for a flight inclusive holiday you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to:www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate

DIDO AND AENEAS BY FESTIVAL D’AIX-EN-PROVENCE © VINCENT PONTET

COVER IMAGE: THE SLEEPING BEAUTY BY ESTONIAN NATIONAL OPERA

Travel For The Arts 12-15 Hanger Green London W5 3EL UK Telephone: +44 20 8799 8350 Fax: +44 20 8998 7965 E-mail: [email protected] www.travelforthearts.com

welcome

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EXPERTS IN CULTURAL TRAVELAll our tours are led by travel experts, and many of our tour managers are also professional musicians and music specialists. Below is a selection of the many people who work with us to ensure that you have the best experience possible.

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENTWe are delighted to be able to offer our single travellers the opportunity to book some of our tours with No Single Supplement. Please look out for this features in the introduction box of the relevant tour.

Simon Rees is a freelance writer, lecturer and translator. For 23 years he was dramaturg at Welsh National Opera.

Carol Savage is a professional concert and opera singer, with a degree in History of Art from London University.

Zita Stockwell has been leading our tours for over 25 years and is an expert on many destinations, particularly her native Budapest. She is a keen opera and concert attendee.

Raffaella Golinucci is a freelance professional Tour Manager and has worked in the music business for many years. She also often looks after well- known musicians.

Stephen Carpenter has planned and led several tours in association with us over the last three years and continues to offer tours to music festivals with his company, Carpenter Holidays.

Patrick Mylon will be familiar to many of our guests, having tour managed for over 10 years. He is a true opera fan, particularly of Wagner, and has attended more than 10 Ring Cycles.

David Waite is a professional Blue Badge Tourist Guide and also the Founder & Director of Guiding You Ltd, a tour guiding and training company.

Eva Gordon-Smith is a consultant, lecturer and Blue Badge Guide. She has been managing concert tours in a number of European countries for 25 years.

Joel Rubenstein Head of Tour Operations

Richard Savage C.E.O.

Pablo Basombrio Sales and

Reservations Manager

TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS TEAM

Mark Saunsbury à la Carte

Reservations Manager

Vanessa Kyriacou Product Manager


Tel: 020 8799 8350 | Email: [email protected] | www.travelforthearts.com 3

BROCHURE HIGHLIGHTS

A CELEBRATION OF PLÁCIDO DOMINGO IN VERONA2 – 5 August Tour code: VRN1Price from £1895 ppA special night is dedicated to Plácido Domingo who celebrates his Golden Anniversary at the Arena di Verona. There is also the option to hear this great artist conduct Bizet’s Carmen.

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THE ENESCU FESTIVAL IN BUCHAREST10 – 14 September Tour code: BUC1Price from £1835 ppSir Bryn Terfel, Leif Ove Andsnes, Gautier Capuçon, Vasily Petrenko, Valery Gergiev and Maxim Vengerov are amongst the great names appearing at one of the largest classical music festivals in Europe.

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VIVA LA MAMMA BY THE THEATRE OF THE ESTATES © PATRIK BORECKÝ

BLACKWATER VALLEY OPERA FESTIVAL30 May – 2 June Tour code: ORK1Price from £1575 ppThis is our first tour to Blackwater Valley Opera Festival near Cork and with a focus on Irish singers and music it is bound to charm and delight. A particular highlight is Donizetti’s Don Pasquale which will be staged in the stableyard of Lismore Castle – a magical backdrop for an enchanting evening.

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MOUNTAINS, MUSEUMS AND MUSIC IN GEORGIA10 – 17 June Tour code: TBS1Price from £1875 ppHome to the imposing Caucasus Mountains, this tour allows you to explore stunning landscapes, taste world-class Georgian wines and attend a performance of Verdi’s Macbeth at the richly-decorated State Theatre.

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On these pages we offer a reminder of current tours on sale which still have some availability. Please see our website www.travelforthearts.com for more details, and telephone us on +44 20 8799 8350 or email [email protected] to reserve your place.

Remember we can book from local airports - please

contact us for a quote.

2019 WINTER AND SPRING TOURS WITH LATE AVAILABILITY

WAGNER IN DRESDEN28 February – 3 March 2019 Tour Code: DRS1

Two Wagner works combine in this long weekend to Dresden; Der fliegende Holländer and Tannhäuser, both featuring Georg Zeppenfeld amongst their casts, while our sightseeing programme gives an overview to the city of Augustus the Strong.

Tour highlights: • No single supplement• 4-star accommodation on the banks of the Elbe• Selected sightseeing including walking tour of Dresden and Wackerbarth Castle• First category ticket for two performances

THE RING IN CHEMNITZ17 – 23 April 2019 Tour Code: CHZ1

We are delighted to present the opportunity to attend the new Ring Cycle from the Chemnitz Opera, which has placed the theme of ‘woman’ at the heart of its debate. Each opera is staged by a different female director; Verena Stoiber for Das Rheingold, Monique Wagemakers for Die Walküre, Sabine Hartmannshenn for Siegfried and Elisabeth Stöppler for Götterdämmerung.

Tour highlights:• 4-star accommodation in the heart of the city• Selected sightseeing including walking tour of the town and visit to the art nouveau

Villa Esche• First category ticket for four performances

FROM£1375

per person

THE BERLIN FESTTAGE16 – 20 April 2019 Tour Code: BER1

Daniel Barenboim’s Easter Festival is a highlight of Berlin’s vibrant cultural season. Our 2019 tour includes two operas performed at the refurbished Staatsoper Unter den Linden; new productions of Prokofiev’s Die Verlobung im Kloster, and Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg on Good Friday. We also attend a concert of the Berlin Staatskapelle with soprano Anna Netrebko led by Daniel Barenboim in the Philharmonie.

Tour highlights:• 4-star accommodation in the heart of the city• Selected sightseeing including 17th-century Charlottenburg Palace• Best available tickets for three performances

STRAUSS & WAGNER IN VIENNA22 – 25 April 2019 Tour Code: VIE1

The majestic Vienna State Opera presents productions from two Richards this spring; Salome by Richard Strauss and Parsifal by Richard Wagner, the latter conducted by Valery Gergiev and featuring a fine cast including Matthias Goerne and René Pape. There is also the option to attend a performance of Beethoven’s Fidelio, while our sightseeing programme focusses on the history of music and culture in the Imperial capital.

Tour highlights:• 5-star accommodation in the elegant Hotel Bristol, located next to the Vienna State Opera• Selected sightseeing including St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Mozarthaus and Spanish

Riding School• First category ticket for three performances

FROM£1995

per person

4 Tel: 020 8799 8350 | Email: [email protected] | www.travelforthearts.com

FROM£1990

per person

FROM£2295

per person

SPRING, SUMMER AND AUTUMN TOURSNew destinations, stunning scenery, great artists and Domingo celebrations are all part of the Spring, Summer and Autumn tours on offer in 2019. From England to Ireland, Macerata to Minsk, we hope to tempt you with our wide array of cultural offerings. Favourite festivals such as Bregenz, Parma, Pesaro, Salzburg and Verona are included alongside the musical riches of the Enescu Festival in Bucharest, the Swiss Alps Classics Festival and Blackwater Valley Opera Festival in Ireland.

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spring, summer & autumn festivals 2019

Tel: 020 8799 8350 | Email: [email protected] | www.travelforthearts.comSUNSET AERIAL VIEW OF VERONA

opera

NATIONAL THEATRE

FRI 15 MAR Lunchtime arrival in Prague and transfer to the 5-star Hotel Paris located within the Old Town and just a few minutes’ walk from Wenceslas Square. In the evening we walk to the Old Town for a Mozart Dinner experience combining a three-course meal with live performances of selected Mozart opera arias and duets.

SAT 16 MAR Join your guide for a walking tour of the Old Town including seeing the astronomical clock, Charles Bridge and Jewish quarter. Lunch and dinner are under own arrangements.

SUN 17 MAR In the morning we join our guide for a Vltava River cruise with coffee and cake before transferring to the Theatre of the Estates for the afternoon performance. Dinner is served at the Sarah Bernhardt Restaurant.

MON 18 MAR This morning we tour the renowned Castle District, visiting the Old Royal Palace, St George’s Basilica (the best preserved Romanesque church in Prague) and Golden Lane, finishing with a transfer on a vintage tram to Prague Castle. Lunch and the afternoon is at leisure before the evening performance at the National Theatre.

TUE 19 MAR Today we embark on a half-day excursion to the birthplace of Dvořák in the historic village of Nelahozeves. Occupied from the 10th century, the site contains the 14th century church of St Andrew and a Renaissance castle. Lunch is at a local restaurant and afternoon at leisure before the evening performance at the State Opera (in the Karlin Theatre).

WED 20 MAR Morning at leisure for shopping or sightseeing. Late morning transfer to the airport for your homeward flight.

PROGRAMME

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one lunch, two dinners, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS

British Airways 15 Mar London Heathrow - Prague dep: 09:20 arr: 12:25 20 Mar Prague - London Heathrow dep: 14:25 arr: 15:40Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1595 Single room supplement £375 Club Europe flight upgrade from £300 Land-only tour price £1475 Deposit required £400

17 Mar 14:00 VIVA LA MAMMA Donizetti Inc D: Radim Vizvăřry C: Enrico Dovico Cast includes: Jana Sibera, Roman Janál, Jiří Brückler, Roman Hoza, Jana Horáková Levicová, Martin Šrejma. Venue: Theatre of the Estates

18 Mar 19:00 ANDREA CHÉNIER Giordano Inc D: Michal Dočekal C: Jan Chalupecký Cast includes: Hector Sandoval, Svatopluk Sem, Petra Alvarez Šimková, Yvona Škvárová, Eliška Weissová, František Zahradníček Venue: National Theatre

19 Mar 19:00 TURANDOT Puccini Inc D: Václav Věžník C: Enrico Dovico Cast includes: Anda-Louise Bogza, Yusif Eyvazov, Oleg Korotkov, Yukiko Kinjo Venue: State Opera (in the Karlin Theatre)

CZECH CULTURE, CASTLES AND CLASSICAL MUSIC

Price from £1595 pp

15 – 20 March 2019 Tour code: PRG1

The charming Czech city of Prague hosts a varied programme of classic operas, including Donizetti’s Viva la Mamma at the intimate Theatre of the Estates, Giordano's Andrea Chénier at the National Theatre and Puccini’s Turandot in the magnificent neo-baroque Karlin Theatre. A full sightseeing programme will showcase the highlights of this most delightful of Central European cities.

VIVA LA MAMMA BY THE THEATRE OF THE ESTATES © PATRIK BORECKÝ


classical music

WED 1 MAY Midday arrival at Venice airport and transfer to Vicenza by coach for check in a the 4-star Palace Hotel La Conchiglia d’Oro, situated outside the Old Town and within walking distance of the Teatro Olimpico. A welcome dinner is served at a local restaurant.

THU 2 MAY Join your guide for a walking tour of Vicenza and its renowned Palladian buildings, including Palazzo Chiericati, Teatro Olimpico and Palazzo Thiene, followed by lunch in a local restaurant. The afternoon is free for independent exploration. Dinner is at your hotel followed by the evening concert at the Teatro Olimpico.

FRI 3 MAY Today we travel to Villa Foscari La Malcontenta, a UNESCO listed villa designed by Palladio in 1554 and situated on the banks of the Brenta Canal which flows between Venice and Padua. Upon arrival we will take a guided tour of the house and gardens and then board a public burchiello boat to cruise along the canal to Oriago for lunch in a local restaurant. Arriving back in Vicenza, dinner is then served at the hotel followed by the concert at the Basilica SS. Felice e Fortunato.

SAT 4 MAY Today we take an excursion to Venice, where a guided tour of the city includes the Palladian sights San Giorgio Maggiore and Il Redentore. Lunch is included in a local restaurant. The rest of the day and evening is at leisure on return to Vicenza.

SUN 5 MAY Join your guide for a full-day tour to Castelfranco Veneto and the Palladian Villa Barbero di Maser, which contains frescoes by Veronese. We then continue to Villa Emo, which was designed by Palladio in 1559 for the Emo family. The tour will include lunch in a local restaurant. Return to Vicenza for dinner at the hotel and then transfer to Teatro Olimpico for the final concert.

MON 6 MAY Check out this morning and transfer to Venice for your homeward flight.

OMAGGIO A PALLADIO FESTIVAL


1 – 6 May 2019 Tour code: VCZ1

NEW DESTINATION | NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

The Omaggio a Palladio Festival in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Vicenza takes place every spring with world-renowned pianist Sir András Schiff. Including concerts in the spectacular Teatro Olimpico and the Basilica SS. Felice e Fortunato, the tour also highlights the remarkable buildings of Andrea Palladio (1508-1580), whose distinctive style, based on classical principles, is considered to be one of the most influential in the history of architecture.

PROGRAMME

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one lunch, four dinners, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS British Airways 1 May London Heathrow - Venice dep: 08:55 arr: 12.05 6 May Venice - London Heathrow dep: 13.00 arr: 14.20Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)Tour price £2195 Club Europe flight upgrade from £300 Land-only tour price £1945 Deposit required £400

2 May 20:30 CONCERT Inc Orchestra: Cappella Andrea Barca Director & Piano: Sir András Schiff Violin: Erich Höbarth Viola: Hariolf Schlichtig Cello: Christoph Richter Programme: Beethoven Piano Concerto no.2 op. 19, Mozart Piano Quartet KV 478, Beethoven Piano Concerto no.1 op. 15 Venue: Teatro Olimpico

SIR ANDRÁS SCHIFF


ANDREA PALLADIO'S TEATRO OLIMPICO IN VICENZA

3 May 20:30 CONCERT Inc Orchestra: Cappella Andrea Barca Director: Sir András Schiff Choir: Schola San Rocco Programme: J Haydn The Seven Last Words of Our Saviour on the Cross, Hob XX/2 (Choral version) Venue: Basilica SS. Felice e Fortunato

5 May 20:30 CONCERT Inc Orchestra: Cappella Andrea Barca Director & piano: Sir András Schiff Programme: JS Bach Ricercare a 6, Mozart Symphony no.41 KV 551, Beethoven Piano Concerto no.5 op. 73 Venue: Teatro Olimpico


OPERA AND ZARZUELA IN BILBAO


20 – 24 May 2019 Tour code: BIO1

NEW PRODUCTION

Famed for its Guggenheim Museum with its iconic curved titanium-clad exterior designed by Frank Gehry, this Basque city has so much more to offer including the 14th-century Cathedral and Fine Arts Museum. Visit Gernika, a town that has risen from the ashes and tragic wartime history to become a universal symbol of peace. Attend Bizet’s opera Les Pêcheurs de Perles, with an outstanding cast that includes tenor Javier Camarena and baritone Mariusz Kwiecień, plus a night of Zarzuela.

LES PÊCHEURS DE PERLES © MICHELE CROSERA

MON 20 MAY Late afternoon arrival in Bilbao and a short transfer to the 5-star boutique Hotel Ercilla López de Haro, which is close to the city’s white Zubizuri bridge and just a 10-minute walk to the Guggenheim Museum. Welcome dinner in a local restaurant.

TUE 21 MAY Join your guide in the morning for a walking tour of Bilbao. Visit the Old Town with its Gothic-style Cathedral dedicated to St James, the patron saint of Bilbao, the 19th-century New Square and San Antón Church which is featured, along with the San Antón Bridge, in the city's coat of arms. There will be an opportunity to sample some tapas and drinks before the afternoon at leisure. Transfer to the evening performance.

WED 22 MAY Spend the morning at the Guggenheim Museum enjoying a guided visit of some of the

contemporary masterpieces on display. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure before the evening’s Zarzuela performance which will be followed by dinner in a local restaurant close to the hotel.

THU 23 MAY A half-day excursion to the Basque town of Gernika, best-known through Picasso’s fabled painting created in response to the bombing of the town by Nazi planes in 1937. Gernika is home to the Museum of Peace, Peace Park and the Church of Santa María, all of which will be visited on the tour. Lunch will then be served in one of the town’s gourmet restaurants before returning to Bilbao.

FRI 24 MAY Morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for the flight home.

PROGRAMME

21 May 19.30 LES PÊCHEURS DE PERLES Bizet Inc D: Pier Luigi Pizzi C: Francesco Ivan Ciampa Cast includes: Javier Camarena, Mariusz Kwiecień, Maria-José Moreno Venue: Palacio Euskalduna

22 May 19.30 IL FINTO SORDO García Inc D: Paco Azorín C: Rubén Fernández Aguirre Cast includes: Cristina Toledo, Gerardo Bullón, César San Martín, Carol García, Damián del Castillo Venue: Sala BBK New production

FLIGHTS British Airways20 May London Gatwick - Bilbao dep: 14.05 arr: 17.2024 May Bilbao - London Gatwick dep: 15.20 arr: 16.40Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, one lunch, tapas and drinks, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

opera

GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM

PALACIO EUSKALDUNA

OLD TOWN


OPERA AND BALLET IN RIGA

Price from £1360 pp 24 – 27 May 2019 Tour code: RIX1

NEW PRODUCTION | NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

Known for its architectural legacy, Riga boasts the largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in Europe, and its Old Town is listed in UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List. At the neo-classical Opera House, French director Vincent Boussard brings Poulenc’s powerful opera Dialogues des Carmélites to the Latvian National Opera stage for the first time. This is paired with the Ballet Company’s award-winning production of La Bayadère.

LA BAYADÈRE BY LATVIAN NATIONAL OPERA

FRI 24 MAY Arrive early afternoon in Riga and transfer to the luxurious 5-star Grand Poet Hotel located in the city centre and a 3 minute walk to the Old Town. Relax before a welcome dinner in a local restaurant that evening.

SAT 25 MAY This morning meet your guide for a walking tour of the Old Town and its numerous stunning Art Deco buildings. Highlights include the 13th-century Dome Cathedral, Riga Castle, St Peter’s Church and the impressive House of the Blackheads. Lunch will be in a local restaurant after which there will be an opportunity to sample Riga’s famous Black Balsam, a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur. The afternoon is at leisure before the evening performance at the Latvian National Opera House.

SUN 26 MAY Spend the day at Gauja, the National Park in Sigulda - only an hour’s drive from Riga, but a world away from city life. Take in the Park’s beautiful landscapes and picturesque river and visit the ruins of the medieval castle of Turaida as well as the Gutman cave which houses the tomb of the ‘Rose of Turaida’. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. Return to Riga for the ballet performance that night.

MON 27 MAY Morning at leisure before transferring to Riga airport for your homeward flight.

PROGRAMME AT LATVIAN NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE

25 May 19.00 DIALOGUES DES CARMÉLITES Poulenc Inc D: Vincent Boussard C: tbc Cast includes: Laura Teivāne

26 May 19.00 LA BAYADÈRE Inc Music: Minkus Choreography: Aivars Leimanis

Casting will be confirmed in Spring 2019

FLIGHTS Air Baltic24 May London Gatwick - Riga dep: 09.25 arr: 14.0527 May Riga - London Gatwick dep: 15.40 arr: 16.40Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1360 Club Europe flight upgrade from £300 Land-only tour price £1095 Deposit required £400Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, two lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

opera & ballet

“I know I will have a good experience and a most enjoyable time with Travel for the Arts. There are always new and interesting people to meet and I look forward to choosing my next tour. The problem is there are so many to choose from!”Miss B, Devon

RIGA LATVIAN NATIONAL OPERA

ARTS AND CULTURE IN MINSK


26 - 31 May 2019 Tour code: MSQ1

NEW DESTINATION | NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

Welcome to Minsk, the capital city of Belarus, situated on the banks of the Svisloch river and a new destination which we think will educate and enthrall. Once a thriving artistic city, much of Minsk was tragically razed to the ground during World War II. However, the city has recently been restored to its former glory and today boasts a blend of architectural styles, fountains, parks and verdant boulevards. We have planned sightseeing tours in and around the city including two World Heritage Sites and a visit to one of the most grandiose defense museums in Eastern Europe. There are also three performances at the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus, an architectural landmark in Minsk, with Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite, a balletic retelling of Bizet’s opera, a particular delight.

opera & ballet

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, five dinners, four lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS Belavia 26 May London Gatwick - Minsk dep: 14.20 arr: 19.15 31 May Minsk- London Gatwick dep: 12.10 arr: 13.20Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1950 Business Class flight upgrade from £600 Land-only tour price £1750 Deposit required £400

PROGRAMME AT THE BOLSHOI THEATRE OF BELARUS

27 May 19.00 CONCERT & BALLET Inc Programme: Orff Carmina Burana Schedrin / Bizet Carmen Suite

28 May 19.00 LE NOZZE DI FIGARO Mozart Inc

30 May 19.00 MACBETH Verdi Inc

Production and casting to be confirmed nearer to the date of departure.

MINSK

SUN 26 MAY Early evening arrival in Minsk and transfer (approx. 1 hour) to the 5-star Hotel Europe. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, in its heyday the hotel was frequented by many artists including Marc Chagall who was born in Belarus. Late welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant.

MON 27 MAY Join your guide for a tour of Minsk and learn the history, culture and traditions of the Belarusian people. Visits will include Independence Square, The Red Church, Victory Square, the National Library and Trinity Suburb, one of the oldest areas in Minsk, as well as the Upper Town with its three Cathedrals. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant after which there will be time to relax. Dinner is at the Russian Seasons restaurant before the concert and ballet performances that evening.

TUE 28 MAY A day with a difference. Take an excursion outside of the city to the Stalin Line Historical and Cultural Complex, named after the original Stalin Line, a network of fortifications along the Western border of the former Soviet Union. With displays that include antitank guns, airplanes and helicopters, this unique museum is one of the most complete exhibitions of artillery and military equipment and allows you to fully immerse yourself in history. Continue the experience with a typical soldier’s lunch - including the requisite glass of vodka given to soldiers before going into combat. Return to Minsk for the afternoon at leisure before dinner at the stylish Studio Wine and Spirits restaurant and the night at the opera.

WED 29 MAY Depart early morning for a full-day excursion to the medieval towns of Nesvizh and Mir, both boasting castles which are listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The castle in the small town of Nesvizh was a former residence of the powerful Radziwiłł family and considered one of the most beautiful in the region. After lunch in a local restaurant, travel to Mir to visit its castle, an impressive blend of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. You will then return to Minsk for dinner and the evening at leisure.

THU 30 MAY Experience typical Belarusian hospitality at Ganka Manor in the relaxing and picturesque countryside just a short distance from Minsk. The Ganets family will greet you with bread and moonshine and explain how this home-made vodka is made. Wander around the farmstead with its animals, buildings and small lake, then partake of a delicious home-made lunch accompanied by folk music. After returning to Minsk and time for shopping or further sightseeing, an early dinner will be served at the cosy Kuchmistr restaurant followed by the evening’s opera performance.

FRI 31 MAY Depart in the morning for the homeward flight.


“Travel for the Arts, a specialist in musical tourism.”

Paul Richardson, Financial Times

OPERA HOUSE

THU 30 MAY Late morning arrival at Cork airport and transfer to the 5-star Fota Island Hotel and Resort, located in the heart of a stunning 780-acre estate just 10 minutes from Cork city. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the hotel before the coach transfer to Dromore Yard, an 18th-century farmyard on the banks of the River Blackwater, for dinner and the Festival’s 10th Anniversary Gala Concert. Coach transfer back to the hotel.

FRI 31 MAY The morning is at leisure before returning to Dromore Yard for a picnic lunch, followed by the afternoon recital. Travel 45 minutes by coach to the beautiful surroundings of Lismore Castle on the shores of the Blackwater River. There is time to wander around the delightful gardens before enjoying dinner and the opera. Coach back to the hotel after the performance.

SAT 1 JUN Mid-morning guided tour of the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, home to the famous whiskey makers since their move from Dublin in 1975. Lunch at leisure before heading to Salterbridge House for a talk on Wagner by Simon Callow, which serves as a perfect introduction to the afternoon recital. Return to the hotel for a farewell dinner.

SUN 2 JUN Spend the morning visiting the Titanic Experience in Cobh before transferring to the airport for the flight home.

BLACKWATER VALLEY OPERA FESTIVAL


30 May – 2 June 2019 Tour code: ORK1

NEW DESTINATION | NEW PRODUCTION | NEW TALENT

Breathtaking locations, historic venues, landscapes, gardens, music, food and wine all contribute to make this “Ireland’s most beautiful summer music festival.” The opening celebratory Gala concert presents a programme by Brahms and Irish composers. Two of Ireland’s rising stars, baritone Gavan Ring and mezzo-soprano Sinéad O’Kelly, join the Zurich International Opera Studio for a recital and a new production of Donizetti’s buffa opera Don Pasquale is set in the stableyard of Lismore Castle. The acclaimed actor Simon Callow shares his passion and knowledge of Wagner, followed by a recital by Irish soprano Orla Boylan.

BLACKWATER VALLEY OPERA FESTIVAL © FRANCES MARSHALL / MARSHALL LIGHT STUDIO

PROGRAMME

30 May 20.00 10TH ANNIVERSARY GALA CONCERT Inc Clarinet: Pablo Barragán Cello: Andrei Ionitā Piano: Juan Pérez Floristan Programme: Stanford - Sonata for Clarinete & Piano op. 129 Trimble - Phantasy Trio (arr. for Clarinet, Cello & Piano Ireland - Trio D Major Brahms - Trio op. 114 Venue: Dromore Yard

31 May 15.00 OPERA RECITAL Inc Young singers from the Zurich International Opera Studio, including Bass-baritone: Richard Walshe Mezzo-soprano: Sinéad O’Kelly Programme: tbc Venue: Dromore Yard

31 May 20.00 DON PASQUALE Donizetti Inc D: Pierre Emmanuel Rousseau C: Marco Zambelli Cast includes: Michele Govi, Aoife Gibney, Manuel Nuñez Camelino New production Venue: Lismore Castle

1 Jun 15.00 WAGNER LECTURE Inc Speaker: Simon Callow Venue: Salterbridge House

1 Jun 16.00 WAGNER RECITAL Inc Soprano: Orla Boylan Programme: Wagner - Wesendonck-Lieder Venue: Salterbridge House

FLIGHTS Aer Lingus30 May London Heathrow - Cork dep: 09.30 arr: 10.552 Jun Cork - London Heathrow dep: 16.00 arr: 17.25Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1575 Single room supplement £210 Land-only tour price £1385 Deposit required £400Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, three dinners, one picnic lunch, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera & classical music

GAVAN RING

CULTURAL FEASTS IN TALLINN


3 – 7 June 2019 Tour code: TLL1

Situated on the Baltic Sea and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, Tallinn is a fascinating mix of German, Russian and Scandinavian influences which have shaped the face of the city over the centuries. In addition to two operas (The Flying Dutchman and La traviata) and an optional ballet (The Sleeping Beauty), feast on numerous cultural activities and enjoy Estonia’s culinary delights in outstanding settings.

TALLINN

MON 3 JUNE Late afternoon arrival at Tallinn airport. Transfer the short distance to Estonia’s capital city of Tallinn and check-in at the Hotel Telegraaf, a 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of the Old Town. A welcome dinner is at the hotel’s acclaimed Restaurant Tchaikovsky, renowned for its Russian cuisine.

TUE 4 JUNE Meet your guide for a walking tour of the Old Town. Highlights include the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Alexander Nevsky with its interesting collection of icons, the Gothic Town Hall, Old Pharmacy House (the oldest continuously running pharmacy in Europe) and the famous Katariina Gild street lined with open studios and artisanal shops. Lunch in a local restaurant before a visit to Toompea Castle, home to the Estonian Parliament. Return to the hotel to relax before walking the short distance to the opera house for a performance of Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman.

WED 5 JUNE Arvo Pärt is Estonia’s greatest living composer and is particularly known for his self-invented compositional technique,

tintinnabuli, best illustrated by his popular work Spiegel im Spiegel. A trip to the architecturally impressive Arvo Pärt Center in Laulasmaa combines the composer’s personal archive with audio and video recordings. Back in Tallinn, lunch is at the cosy Resturant Platz. Spend the evening at leisure or opt for a performance of Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet The Sleeping Beauty.

THU 6 JUNE The morning is for you to spend at leisure, shopping or maybe taking advantage of the hotel’s Spa facilities. Talinn is well-known for its marzipan and a fun workshop is organized with the chance to make and decorate this delicious treat. Sample modern Estonian cuisine at Restaurant Kaerajaan and later that day a farewell dinner is at the famed restaurant Mon Repos with enchanting interiors and set in the beautiful Kadrior Park. This is followed by a performance of Verdi’s La traviata.

FRI 7 JUNE Morning transfer to Tallinn airport for the homeward flight.

PROGRAMME

4 June 19.00 THE FLYING DUTCHMAN Inc D: Pamela Recinella C: tbc

5 JUNE 19.00 The Sleeping Beauty £50 Music: Tchaikovsky Choreography: Thomas Edur

6 June 19.00 LA TRAVIATA Inc D: Neeme Kuningas C: tbc

Casting will be confirmed in Spring 2019

FLIGHTS Finnair3 Jun London Heathrow - Helsinki dep: 10.20 arr: 15.15 Helsinki - Tallinn dep: 16.25 arr: 17.00 7 Jun Tallinn – Helsinki dep: 12.50 arr: 13.20 Helsinki - London Heathrow dep: 14.05 arr: 15.10Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1725 Single room supplement £360 Business Class flight upgrade* from £520 Land-only tour price £1535 Deposit required £400*Business class upgrade only applicable on flights London-Helsinki and Helsinki-London

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, three lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera & ballet

“As a long-term customer with you, you are meeting and exceeding my

expectations. Thank you!”Mrs M, London

LA TRAVIATA ESTONIAN NATIONAL OPERA

ALCINA (C) MATTHIAS CREUTZIGER

FRI 7 JUN Morning arrival in Salzburg to check in at the 5-star Hotel Bristol, located in the heart of the city. A welcome dinner will be served in a local restaurant.

SAT 8 JUN Join your guide for a morning tour of Salzburg along the theme ‘the city is a stage’. This will include visits to some of the most renowned sights, including Mozart’s birthplace where the family lived from 1747 to 1773, and the cathedral where he was baptised. Optional afternoon performance at the Felsenreitschule before the evening performance at the Festspielhaus.

SUN 9 JUN Today we visit Leopoldskron Palace and garden, bought by Max Reinhardt, co-founder of the Salzburg Festival, in the 1920s. It was here that

Reinhardt wanted to realize his vision of baroque theatre performances, and we see the extravagant open-air stage and neo-baroque park, complete with a garden theatre and artificial ponds. After returning to the city for an independent lunch, we attend the afternoon performance at the Haus für Mozart, followed by a free evening.

MON 10 JUN This morning we walk to the Mozarteum for the final performance in the tour. Afternoon at leisure for independent sightseeing and shopping before a farewell dinner served in a local restaurant.

TUE 11 JUN Morning at leisure before the mid-afternoon transfer to Salzburg airport for your homeward flight.

PROGRAMME

8 Jun 15.00 POLIFEMO Porpora £275 D: Max Emanuel Cencic C: George Petrou Cast includes: Yuriy Mynenko, Max Emanuel

Cencic, Pavel Kudinov, Julia Lezhneva, Dilyara Idrisova, Nian Wang

Venue: Felsenreitschule Semi-staged performance

8 Jun 20.00 GALA CONCERT: FARINELLI & FRIENDS Inc C: Gianluca Capuano Presentation: Rolando Villazón Cast includes: Julie Fuchs, Patricia Petibon, Sandrine Piau, Nuria Rial, Cecilia Bartoli, Lea Desandre, Vivica Genaux, Ann Hallenberg, Marie-Nicole Lemieux, Christophe Dumaux, Philippe Jaroussky Programme: Great baroque arias, scenes and duets by George Frideric Handel, Nicola Porpora, Johann Adolph Hasse, Riccardo Broschi and others Venue: Grosses Festspielhaus

9 Jun 16.00 ALCINA Handel Inc D: Damiano Michieletto C: Gianluca Capuano Cast includes: Cecilia Bartoli, Philippe

Jaroussky, Sandrine Piau, Kristina Hammarström, Christoph Strehl, Alastair Miles

Venue: Haus für Mozart

10 Jun 11.00 STABAT MATER Pergolesi Inc C & Violin: Andrés Gabetta Mezzo-soprano: Cecilia Bartoli Countertenor: Franco Fagioli Cappella Gabetta Venue: Mozarteum

FLIGHTS British Airways7 Jun London Gatwick - Salzburg dep: 07.45 arr: 10.45 11 Jun Salzburg - London Gatwick dep: 18.45 arr: 19.45Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, best available ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

CECILIA BARTOLI PHILIPPE JAROUSSKY

THE SALZBURG WHITSUN FESTIVAL


7 – 11 June 2019 Tour code: SZG1

NEW PRODUCTION

‘I voci celesti’ are the focus of the 2019 Salzburg Whitsun Festival - the heavenly voices of the castrati. The Gala Concert dedicated to Farinelli and friends includes baroque works presented by Rolando Villazón and performed by a host of singers including Cecilia Bartoli and Philippe Jaroussky, who also feature in a production of Handel’s Alcina. There is also the added opportunity to attend a semi-staged performance of Porpora’s Polifemo, which starred Farinelli himself at its debut.



MOUNTAINS, MUSEUMS AND MUSIC IN GEORGIA


10 – 17 June 2019 Tour code: TBS1

NEW DESTINATION

Another exciting new destination for 2019 is Georgia. A country at the intersection of Europe and Asia, its natural beauty boasts the imposing Caucasus Mountains and the world’s oldest wine-producing region. Its capital city, Tbilisi, runs along the twisting valley of Mtkvari River and is known for its abundance of medieval architecture and churches as well as the charm of its Old Town. In addition, this tour will allow you to explore ancient crafts and experience Georgian hospitality via its food and famous Georgian wines.

opera

TBILISI OPERA HOUSE © GIORGI SHERMAZANASHVILI

MON 10 JUN Late departure for the overnight flight to Tbilisi.

TUE 11 JUN Early morning arrival in Tbilisi and check-in at the 5-star Iota Hotel, located in the centre of Old Tbilisi. Rest and relax in the morning before joining your guide for an afternoon tour of this charming city. Start from the historic district of Metekhi and take the cable car to the ancient Narikala Fortress which dominates the skyline of the Old Town. The tour will then continue to the legendary 17th-century sulphur baths after which you will also visit the Great Synagogue, the Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati, the most ancient Basilica in Tbilisi. The tour ends with a visit to the National Museum of Georgia. Return to the hotel to relax before dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant followed by a folk show.

WED 12 JUN The morning is spent at the Art Museum of Georgia with its collection of icons, altars, chalices and crosses that show the skill of Georgian goldsmiths across the ages. At the Cloisonné Enamel School you will have the chance to make your own piece of enamel jewellery before exploring the Rustaveli National Theatre, one of the oldest theatres in the country, named after Georgia’s national poet Shota Rustaveli and famed for its exquisite architecture and frescoes. The afternoon and dinner are at leisure before the evening’s opera performance.

THU 13 JUN Today you will have the chance to discover more of the beauty and history that Georgia has to offer. Depart for the ancient capital of Mtskheta, an important religious centre, stopping en route at the 6th-century Jvari Monastery and

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, reputedly one of the burial sites of Christ’s cloak. Spend time in Mtskheta before the scenic drive towards the Kazbegi region during which you will visit Gergeti Trinity Church overlooking the snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. Dinner and an overnight stay at the 4-star Rooms Hotel in Kazbegi, a cosy alpine retreat with stunning panoramic views.

FRI 14 JUN The morning is spent in Kazbegi with an opportunity to learn how traditional Georgian felt is crafted. Travel back to Tbilisi via the historic Ananuri castle complex overlooking the Aragvi river and Château Mukhrani where you will take a tour of Prince Bagrationi’s castle with its gardens, amphitheatre, cellars and vineyards and enjoy some of the best Georgian wine produced at this award-winning winery.Return to Tbilisi for dinner at the Iota Hotel.

SAT 15 JUN Today’s excursion is to the Kakheti region, Georgia’s oldest wine-producing region and an area rich in history. Visit the 11th-century Alaverdi Monastery with its vineyards from which the monks still make their own wine today and the small town of Telavi, once the capital of the Kakheti kingdom. Continue to the village of Vardisubani and witness local craftsmen making Qvevri, egg-shaped earthenware vessels in which wine is fermented and stored. Lunch will be at the Shumi winery in Kvareli where you will be able to sample four types of Georgian wine and also participate in a the making of the traditional Georgian delicacy Churchkhela. The afternoon will be spent in Tsinandali, a village noted

for the historic winery that once belonged to the 19th-century poet Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, and from where the highly-regarded dry white Tsinandali wine is still produced. Enjoy a tour of the Estate museum and stroll through the landscaped garden - in particular its ‘love lane’ - before returning to Tbilisi.

SUN 16 JUN Your last full day in Georgia takes you along the Silk Road to Gori, the birthplace of Stalin. Here you will visit the Stalin Museum before proceeding to the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe, once an important political and religious pre-Christian centre. Return to Tbilisi and stop at the Sarajishvili Brandy Factory where you will be guided through its history and the life of its founder David Sarajishvili as well as sampling a selection of some of the brandies made at this prize-winning company. Dinner and the evening at leisure.

MON 17 JUN Enjoy time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Tbilisi before transferring to the airport for the early evening flight home.


KAZBEGI

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, three dinners, one lunch, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS Georgian Airways 10 Jun London Gatwick - Tbilisi dep: 22.50 arr: 06.40 (+1) 17 Jun Tbilisi - London Gatwick dep: 19.00 arr: 21.20Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1875 Single room supplement £350 Business class flight upgrade from £1200 Land-only tour price £1645 Deposit required £400

PROGRAMME

12 Jun MACBETH Verdi Inc Venue: Tbilisi Opera House

Production team and casting will be confirmed closer to the date of departure.


opera

TBILISI OPERA HOUSE © ZURA BALANCHIVADZE

GEORGIAN NATIONAL OPERA THEATRE GEORGIAN NATIONAL OPERA THEATRE

TBILISI

MACBETH

THE OPÉRA ROYAL AT VERSAILLES


14 - 17 June 2019 Tour code: VER1

BY RAIL

The Opéra Royal at Versailles was inaugurated on 16 May 1770, the wedding day of the future Louis XVI and the Archduchess Marie-Antoinette. We attend a performance of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, presented by artistes of the Juilliard Opera of New York, as well as a concert in the Royal Chapel based upon music played at the coronation of Louis XIV.

OPÉRA ROYAL DE VERSAILLES © AGATHE POUPENEY

FRI 14 JUN Afternoon arrival in Paris, and transfer to Versailles by coach (approx. 1.5 hours) to check in at the 4-star Le Louis, Versailles Château - MGallery by Sofitel, an elegant hotel located in the heart of the city and just steps from the Château of Versailles. A welcome drink and canapés will be served in the hotel this evening.

SAT 15 JUN Join your guide this morning to visit the Château, established as a Royal Palace by Louis XIV, also known as the ‘Sun King’. We take a guided visit of the sumptuous interior, including the famous Hall of Mirrors. There will then be some free time at the hotel before the evening concert in the Royal Chapel.

SUN 16 JUN This morning we return to the Palace for an individual visit of the spectacular gardens, created and renovated by André Le Nôtre from 1661 onwards and featuring many fountains, sculptures and groves. This afternoon is at leisure before the early evening opera performance at the Opéra Royal, followed by a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

MON 17 JUN Transfer to Paris for your homeward journey on Eurostar.

PROGRAMME AT THE PALACE OF VERSAILLES

15 Jun 19.00 CONCERT: LOUIS XIV’S CORONATION Inc Ensemble Correspondances C: Sébastien Daucé Programme: Works from the Coronation of Louis XIV Venue: Royal Chapel

16 Jun 17.00 DIDO AND AENEAS Purcell Inc D: Mary Birnbaum C: Avi Stein Cast includes: Artistes from the Juillard

Opera of New York Venue: Opéra Royal

RAIL Eurostar14 Jun London St Pancras - Paris Gare du Nord dep: 11.31 arr: 14.47 17 Jun Paris Gare du Nord - London St Pancras dep: 13.13 arr: 14.39If more convenient, flights from your local airport can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1390 Single room supplement £360 Standard premier upgrade from £100 Land-only tour price £1270 Deposit required £350

Tour price includes: Rail travel, group transfers from and to station and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, welcome drink and canapés, one dinner, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

VERSAILLES



CHOPIN AND BALLET IN WARSAW


27 June – 1 July 2019 Tour code: WAW1

Immerse yourself in Polish culture during this wonderful long weekend in and around Warsaw. As well as being introduced to a very special city via its beautiful Royal Route and unique Old Town (now a UNESCO World Heritage Site), an excursion outside of the city allows you to appreciate the aristocratic splendour and captivating landscapes of this romantic central European country which so inspired Poland’s great pianist and composer Fryderyk Chopin. Attend a private piano recital with music by Chopin in one of Warsaw’s many magnificent palaces and experience an exciting new staging of Swan Lake in which the black swan is represented by the legendary prima ballerina assoluta Mathilde Kschessinska.

MELISSA HAMILTON IN SWAN LAKE © EWA KRASUCKA/TEATR WIELKI - POLISH NATIONAL OPERA

THU 27 JUN Late afternoon arrival at Warsaw airport and transfer to the 5-star Hotel Le Regina, housed in the historic Mokrowsky Palace. This stylish boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Warsaw’s Old Town and is close to the Royal Castle and Opera House. Welcome dinner in the hotel.

FRI 28 JUN Meet your guide for a morning tour of the city. Walk along the Royal Route with its wealth of architectural treasures before entering the picturesque Old Town, much of which was impressively rebuilt after the war to become once more the true heart of the city. Visits will include the glorious baroque-style Royal Castle with its ornate Italianate rooms. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure before transferring by coach to the theatre for the ballet performance in the evening.

SAT 29 JUN Today is a full day excursion to the outer regions of Warsaw, where the beauty of the Polish countryside is complimented by the charm of the

old aristocratic residences. The first stop is Chopin’s birthplace in the small village of Zelazowa Wola, where to celebrate the composer’s bicentenary in 2010, the grounds surrounding the house were revamped, making it now one of the most beautiful National Parks in Poland. The tour continues to Nieborów with its aristocratic Palace and Arkadia gardens based on classical mythology. During the tour lunch will be served in a local restaurant. Return to the hotel for the evening at leisure.

SUN 30 JUN Join your guide this morning for a tour of some of the city’s most important sights relating to Chopin, including the Church of the Holy Cross Church to where the composer’s heart was brought by his sister after his premature death in Paris. No visit to Warsaw would be complete without spending time at the Fryderyk Chopin Museum in the beautiful Ostrogski Palace where the exhibits include the grand piano belonging to Poland’s

PROGRAMME

28 Jun 19.00 SWAN LAKE Inc New libretto: Paweł Chynowski Music: Pyotr Tchaikovsky Choreography: Krzysztof Pastor Venue: Teatr Wielki – Polish National Opera

30 Jun PRIVATE PIANO RECITAL Inc Piano: tbc Programme: Works by Chopin Venue: tbc

FLIGHTS British Airways27 Jun London Heathrow - Warsaw dep: 14.00 arr: 17.25 1 Jul Warsaw - London Heathrow dep: 11.50 arr: 13.35Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, one lunch, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

most beloved artist, as well as a number of his letters and musical compositions. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure before a private piano recital of Chopin’s music in one of Warsaw’s sumptuous palaces, followed by dinner in a select restaurant.

MON 1 JUL Morning transfer to the airport for the homeward flight.


ballet & recital

OLD TOWN ZELAZOWA WOLA

SWISS ALPS CLASSICS FESTIVAL


28 June – 1 July 2019 Tour code: SWI1

NEW DESTINATION

Experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps in the height of summer with three concerts at the Swiss Alps Classics Festival in the historic village of Andermatt. Established to celebrate the symbolism of the historic Gotthard region, source of great fascination to historic figures such as Goethe, Schiller and French writer Lamartine, this year’s festival presents performances by Christian Flury and soprano Marisol Montalvo.

FRI 28 JUN Afternoon arrival in Zurich and transfer by coach to Andermatt (approx. 2 hours) to check in at the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen located in the heart of the picturesque Swiss village. A welcome dinner is served in the hotel.

SAT 29 JUN We start the tour with a performance at the New Concert Hall 'Tonhalle Reuss' in the Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen followed by an independent lunch. In the afternoon we join our local guide for a walking tour of Andermatt, exploring the historic charm and beauty of this traditional Swiss village located at the foot of the Gotthard Pass. We return to the hotel for the evening performance.

SUN 30 JUN Today starts with a morning recital at the Church of St Peter and Paul followed by lunch at your leisure. In the early afternoon we transfer to the San Gottardo Museum for a unique walk through the heart of the Alps in tunnels excavated during World War Two. The tour ends with the fortress Sasso da Pigna located under the Gotthard Peak. Dinner is under your own arrangement.

MON 1 JUL Transfer to Zurich airport for your homeward journey.

PROGRAMME

29 Jun 11.30 RECITAL Christian Flury (cello), Inc Swiss Alps Chamber Ensemble Programme includes: Stravinsky The Solder's Tale Venue: New Concert Hall ‘Tonhalle Reuss’

29 Jun 20.00 RECITAL Jörg Widmann (clarinet) Inc Marisol Montalvo (soprano), Swiss Alps Chamber Ensemble Programme: tbc Venue: New Concert Hall ‘Tonhalle Reuss’

30 Jun 11.30 RECITAL Emmanuel Tjeknavorian Inc (director), Franz Xaver Frenzel (harpsichord), Swiss Alps Chamber Ensemble Programme includes: Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Frankel Venue: Church of St Peter and Paul

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS British Airways 28 Jun London Heathrow - Zurich dep: 09.25 arr: 12.20 1 Jul Zurich - London Heathrow dep: 15.50 arr: 16.40Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1395 Single supplement £195 Club Europe flight upgrade from £250 Land-only tour price £1325 Deposit required £350

MARISOL MONTALVO

GOTTHARD PASS


classical music

ANDERMATT VILLAGE AND THE SWISS ALPS

OPERA IN HISTORICAL SOFIA AND PLOVDIV


6 – 13 July 2019 Tour code: SOP1

NEW TOUR | MEET THE ARTIST

This early-summer tour celebrates the musical and historical heritage of Bulgaria’s capital and surrounding region. Wagner is featured across two performances at Sofia Opera with Tristan und Isolde and Parsifal. Our sightseeing programme includes a private concert in one of Arbanassi’s historic churches together with a tour of the ancient city of Plovdiv, European Capital of Culture for 2019.

SAT 6 JUL Arrival in Sofia and transfer to the 5-star Arena di Serdica Hotel, centrally located in the city. A welcome dinner will be served in a local restaurant.

SUN 7 JUL Join your guide for a city tour of Sofia, including Bulgaria’s largest church, the St Alexander Nevski, topped by golden domes, the 6th century basilica St Sofia and the National Theatre, built in the renaissance-style with striking fountains and garden. Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is at leisure before the first early evening performance at the Sofia Opera and an opportunity to meet the artists after the event.

MON 8 JUL Today we visit Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century by St John of Rila whose dwelling and tomb became a holy site and were transformed into a monastic complex now known for its frescos, museum and architecture. We return to Sofia following lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon and evening at leisure.

TUE 9 JUL Today we journey east to the town of Veliko Tarnovo, stopping first at Arbanasi, a village known for the stunning interior of its Nativity Church with frescos depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. After enjoying a private concert from an orthodox choir in one of Arbanassi’s many historic churches, we then continue to Veliko Tarnovo to check in at the 4-star Yantra Grand Hotel followed by a walking tour of the medieval city’s cobbled streets. Dinner is served at a local restaurant.

WED 10 JUL Our tour continues with a transfer by coach to the ancient city of Plovdiv, European Capital of Culture for 2019. Our first stop is a visit to the fortress of Zarevets Hill, giving a breathtaking view over the town of Veliko Tarnovo. From there we travel to Kazanlak, the

home of the Thracian kings and the country’s largest and best preserved Thracian tombs before departing to Plovdiv where we check in to the 4-star Landmark Hotel followed by dinner.

THU 11 JUL Today we join our guide to explore the historic city of Plovdiv with its Roman ruins and cobbled streets of the Old Town. The tour includes the town’s Regional Ethnographic Museum and Roma amphitheatre. We then depart for the boutique Villa Yustina Winery, situated in the outskirts of the Rhodopi Mountains, for lunch accompanied by wine tasting. The afternoon is at leisure in Plovdiv followed by the evening performance.

FRI 12 JUL This morning we return to Sofia via the monastery at Bachkovo, the second largest monastery in Bulgaria with the Church of Sveta Bogoroditsa and its frescos as a centrepiece. After arriving in Sofia we check in to the Arena di Serdica Hotel with the afternoon at leisure before the evening performance at Sofia Opera.

SAT 13 JUL Transfer to Sofia airport for your homeward journey.

PROGRAMME

7 Jul 18:00 TRISTAN UND ISOLDE Wagner Inc D: Plamen Kartaloff C: Velizar Genchev Cast includes: Martin Iliev, Radostina Nikolaeva, Bayasgalan Dashnyam, Angel Hristov, Veselin Mihaylov, Biser Georgiev, Plamen Papazikov, Krasimir Dinev, Nikolay Petrov Venue: Sofia Opera

11 Jul 21:00 PRIVATE CONCERT CHAMBER Inc Venue: Plovdiv

12 Jul 18:00 PARSIFAL Wagner Inc D: Plamen Kartaloff C: Ira Levin Cast includes: Kostadin Andreev, Atanas Mladenov, Petar Buchkov, Angel Hristov, Biser Georgiev, Radostina Nikolaeva Venue: Sofia Opera

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, three dinners, four lunches, one light snack, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS British Airways 6 Jul London Heathrow - Sofia dep: 08.00 arr: 13.10 13 Jul Sofia - London Heathrow dep: 14.00 arr: 15.30Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)



tour featuring wagner

“Very happy to have found you!”

Miss H, West Sussex

PARSIFAL BY STAATSOPER UNTER DEN LINDEN (C) MONIKA RITTERSHAUS

RILA MONASTERY

40TH ANNIVERSARY AT BUXTON FESTIVAL OPERA

Price from £945 pp

13 – 16 July 2019 Tour code: BUX1

WORLD PREMIERE | NEW PRODUCTIONS MEET THE ARTISTS | INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

In 2019 the Buxton International Festival will celebrate 40 years of music-making in this splendid Spa town in the heart of Derbyshire. Two new productions will be presented: wonderful young British singers in Lucio Papirio Dittatore, a forgotten gem by Antonio Caldara, and an English version of Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin. A highlight of the Festival will be the specially-commissioned World Premiere of Georgiana, a unique and entertaining pasticcio celebrating the life and times of the enthralling Georgiana Cavendish, 5th Duchess of Devonshire, after which there will be an opportunity to meet the cast.

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

SAT 13 JUL Independent arrival at the 4-star Best Western Lee Wood Hotel in Buxton. Set in its own mature gardens, this elegant Georgian hotel is situated only a few moments' walk from the centre of the town and the Opera House. Family-owned for over 50 years, the hotel offers high-quality accommodation and rosette-standard dining. Late-afternoon welcome drinks and canapés will be served in the hotel before walking to the Opera House for the evening performance.

SUN 14 JUL This morning take a special walking tour of Buxton and discover the history and heritage of this majestic Spa town through the eyes of historic female characters portrayed by costumed guides. Based at the Old Hall, the stories of three strong, intelligent and dynastic women, Queen Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots and Bess of Hardwick, are brought alive against a backdrop of politics, religion and tragedy. Then join Miss Seward who paints a picture of Georgian society as she reflects on her fellow guests in the Assembly Rooms, the social heart of 18th-century Buxton. Lunch at leisure before the matinee performance. Welcome dinner at the hotel in the evening.

MON 15 JUL Travel through the beautiful Peak District to Chatsworth House, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and considered by many the jewel of England’s country houses. Enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Painted Hall, the regal State Rooms and Sculpture Gallery as well as the Devonshire Collection, a hugely significant art collection, encompassing

Old Masters to contemporary works by Lucian Freud and Edmund de Waal. Return to Buxton for lunch at leisure. The visit to Chatsworth will set the scene for the evening’s performance of Georgiana, with music from 18th-century composers Mozart, Storace, Martyn y Soler and Thomas Linley. There will be a drinks reception with the cast after the performance.

TUE 16 JUL Independent departure.

PROGRAMME AT BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

13 Jul 19:15 LUCIO PAPIRIO DITTATORE Caldara Inc D: Mark Burns C: Adrian Chandler Cast includes: Robert Murray, William Towers, Owen Willetts, Rowan Pierce New production

14 Jul 14.00 EUGENE ONEGIN Tchaikovsky Inc D: Jamie Manton C: Adrian Kelly Cast includes: George Humphreys, Shelley Jackson, David Webb, Angharad Lyddon New production (in English)

15 Jul 19:15 GEORGIANA Music from the Enlightenment Inc D: Matthew Richardson C: Mark Tatlow Cast includes: Samantha Clarke, Andrew Kennedy, Susanna Fairbairn World Premiere

ARRIVAL INFORMATION Direct train services from London Euston to Macclesfield or Stockport station are available (approx. 2 hours) then either a connection to Buxton station (approx. 1 hour 10 minutes from Macclesfield or 50 minutes from Stockport) or a taxi transfer of approx. 30 minutes.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £945 Single room supplement £90 Deposit required £250

Tour price includes: Group transfers from and to included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, canapés and welcome drink, drinks reception, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera

CHATSWORTH HOUSE

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

FESTIVITIES IN AIX-EN-PROVENCE


13 – 17 July 2019 Tour code: AIX1

NEW PRODUCTIONS

Celebrate Bastille Day during this annual festival in the charming city of Aix-en-Provence, with its elegant squares, majestic avenues and delightful fountains. 2019 sees a new production of Puccini’s beloved Tosca with two stars of the world of opera – soprano Angel Blue and tenor Joseph Calleja – under the baton of the young Italian conductor Daniele Rustioni, plus Mozart’s Requiem, both in the stunning setting of the open-air Théâtre de l’Archevêché. A further highlight is a film screening of Fritz Lang’s futuristic epic ‘Metropolis’ accompanied by Esa-Pekka Salonen and the Orchestre Philharmonia.

THÉÂTRE DE L’ARCHEVÊCHÉ © VINCENT PONTET

SAT 13 JUL Afternoon arrival at Marseille airport and transfer to the Aquabella Hotel & Spa. This 4-star hotel is ideally situated in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, surrounded by a magnificent Mediterranean garden and just a short walk to the Théâtre de l’Archevêché. Welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant.

SUN 14 JUL Today is Bastille Day and a day of national celebration in France. Soak in the festive atmosphere as you join your guide for a walking tour of the historic centre of Aix-en-Provence. Visit the Cathedral St Sauveur and Romanesque cloisters and see the many wonderful fountains scattered throughout the city. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure before the 10-minute walk from the hotel to the Grand Théâtre de Provence for the early evening’s film screening with live orchestra.

MON 15 JUL The day is free for independent sightseeing, shopping or simply taking

advantage of the hotel spa. In the evening walk the short distance to the Théâtre de l’Archevêché for the late evening performance.

TUE 16 JUL Travel north to the Luberon Valley in the heart of Provence. The area is characterised by a number of strikingly picturesque hill-top medieval villages such as Gordes, Roussillon and Menerbes, the latter made known to many through Peter Mayle’s memoir ‘A Year in Provence’. Stop in Lourmarin, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, and home for many years to Albert Camus. Sample regional wines and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the hotel. Take time to relax before walking to the theatre for the late evening performance.

WED 17 JUL Spend the morning and lunch at leisure before transferring to the airport for the late afternoon flight home.

21

PROGRAMME

14 Jul 18.00 ORCHESTRE PHILHARMONIA Inc C: Esa-Pekka Salonen ‘Metropolis’ by Fritz Lang Concert film Venue: Grand Théâtre de Provence

15 Jul 21.30 TOSCA Puccini Inc D: Christophe Honoré C: Daniele Rustioni Cast includes: Angel Blue, Joseph Calleja New Production Venue: Théâtre de l’Archevêché

16 Jul 22.00 REQUIEM Mozart Inc D: Romeo Castellucci C: Raphaël Pichon Cast: tbc New Production Venue: Théâtre de l’Archevêché

FLIGHTS British Airways13 July London Heathrow - Marseille dep: 13.05 arr: 16.00 17 July Marseille - London Heathrow dep: 16.50 arr: 17.45Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, one lunch, wine tasting, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera

“Can’t wait for our next tour!”Prof L, Dorset

TOSCA

LA ROTONDE FOUNTAIN

VERDI IN SPAIN Price from £1995 pp

13 – 17 July 2019 Tour code: SPA1

Join us for a two-centre tour to vibrant Spain focused on the operas of Verdi, including Giovanna d’Arco at the Teatro Real in Madrid starring Plácido Domingo and Luisa Miller at the Teatro del Liceu in Barcelona, the Catalan capital of culture. Our sightseeing programme features the highlights of Madrid and Gaudi's iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.


opera

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, welcome drinks and two lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

FLIGHTS British Airways 13 Jul London Heathrow - Madrid dep: 11.35 arr: 15.00 17 Jul Barcelona - London Heathrow dep: 14.50 arr: 16.10Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


PROGRAMME

13 Jul 20:00 IL TROVATORE Verdi Inc D: Francisco Negrín C: Maurizio Benini Cast includes: Ludovic Tézier, Maria Agresta, Ekaterina Semenchuk, Francesco Meli, Roberto Tagliavini Venue: Teatro Real, Madrid

14 Jul 20:00 GIOVANNA D’ARCO Verdi Inc C: James Conlon Cast includes: Michael Fabiano, Plácido Domingo, Carmen Giannattasio, Moisés Marín, Simón Orfila Venue: Teatro Real, Madrid

FOUNTAIN OF CIBELES, MADRID

SAT 13 JUL Mid-afternoon arrival in Madrid and transfer to the 4-star Hotel Emperador, located on the Gran Vía and close to the major sights including Plaza Mayor, Plaza de España, Puerta del Sol, Cibeles and the Prado Museum. Welcome drinks will be served in the hotel, before the evening performance at Teatro Real.

SUN 14 JUL Join your guide this morning for a walking tour of the highlights of Madrid, including the Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace, built by the Bourbons in the 18th-century and the official residence of the Royal Family until 1931. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. Evening concert performance of Giovanna d’Arco starring Plácido Domingo at Teatro Real.

MON 15 JUL Morning at leisure for independent exploration of Madrid. In the afternoon we transfer to the train station to travel on the high-speed Ave train to Barcelona (approx. 3 hours) and check in to the 4-star superior Hotel Barcelona Center, located in the heart of the Eixample district. We then transfer on foot to Teatro del Liceu for the evening performance.

TUE 16 JUL This morning join your guide for a tour of the immense Sagrada Familia cathedral, which has become the symbol of Barcelona. A farewell lunch is served in a local restaurant and the afternoon is at leisure for further exploration.

WED 17 JUL Morning at leisure for last-minute shopping and sightseeing. Transfer to the airport for your homeward journey.

15 Jul 20.00 LUISA MILLER Verdi Inc D: Damiano Michieletto C: Domingo Hindoyan Cast includes: Dmitry Belosselskiy, Piotr Beczala, J’Nai Bridges, Marko Mimica, Luca Salsi, Sondra Radvanovsky, Gemma Coma-Alabert Venue: Teatro de Liceu, Barcelona

Tickets to Teatro Real will be confirmed March 2019.

MADRID

GARSINGTON OPERA AND THE GETTY LIBRARY


18 – 22 July 2019 Tour code: GAR1

NEW PRODUCTIONS | UK STAGE PREMIERE INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

Escape to the country and celebrate 30 years of Garsington Opera in style with three new productions, including the UK stage premiere of Fantasio, presented especially for Offenbach’s bicentenary. This wonderful long weekend also offers an occasion to visit the magnificent Blenheim Palace plus the privileged opportunity to view Sir Paul Getty’s unparalleled collection of books dating from the 7th to the 20th century.

GETTY LIBRARY

THU 18 JUL Independent arrival at Hartwell House & Spa, one of England’s fine stately homes, set in over 90 acres of gardens and park in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Vale of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. Welcome dinner in the two AA Rosette restaurant.

FRI 19 JUL Travel to Wormsley for a private visit to the Getty Library which houses one of the finest private collections of books and manuscripts in the country. Feast on a gourmet picnic in the grounds before the evening performance of Britten’s haunting opera Turn of the Screw.

SAT 20 JUL Independent visit to Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and now a

UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the gilded State rooms and priceless collections then wander around the landscaped parkland and formal gardens, followed by lunch at Blenheim or the adjacent picturesque village of Woodstock. Return to Garsington Opera to enjoy afternoon tea with champagne prior to the UK stage premiere of Offenbach’s enchanting opera Fantasio.

SUN 21 JUL Today is an opportunity to rest and relax at Hartwell House with its beautiful gardens or visit the Spa, set in a former orangery. In the evening a three-course dinner will be served during the long interval of the performance of Don Giovanni.

MON 22 JUL Independent departure.

23

PROGRAMME

19 Jul 18.35 TURN OF THE SCREW Britten Inc D: Louisa Muller C: Richard Farnes Cast: Ed Lyon, Sophie Bevan, Kathleen Wilkinson, Katherine Broderick New production

20 Jul 18.05 FANTASIO Offenbach Inc D: Martin Duncan C: Justin Doyle Cast: Hanna Hipp, Jennifer France, Huw Montague Rendall, Timothy Robinson, Brian Bannatyne-Scott UK stage premiere

21 Jul 17.45 DON GIOVANNI Mozart Inc D: Michael Boyd C: Douglas Boyd Cast: Jonathan McGovern, David Ireland, Camilla Titinger, Sky Ingram New production

ARRIVAL INFORMATION If travelling to Hartwell House by car, the nearest stations are Haddenham & Thame Parkway and Aylesbury with regular fast and comfortable services from London Marylebone and Birmingham. Haddenham & Thame Parkway is the quickest service with some trains taking just 35 minutes from London.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £2250 Single room supplement £320 Deposit required £600 Tour price includes: Group transfers from and to included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, one lunch, afternoon tea with champagne, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera

GARSINGTON OPERA PAVILION

SOPHIE BEVAN

CARMEN ON THE FLOATING STAGE AT BREGENZ FESTIVAL © ANJA KÖHLER - PIGRAFIK

PROGRAMME

21 Jul 11.00 DON QUICHOTTE Massenet Inc D: Mariame Clément C: Antonino Fogliani Cast includes: Gábor Bretz, Anna Goryachova and Léonie Renaud Venue: Festspielhaus

22 Jul 19.30 MESSA DA REQUIEM Verdi Inc C: Fabio Luisi Cast: Maria José Siri, Anna Goryachova, Sergey Romanovsky and Gábor Bretz Venue: Festspielhaus

23 Jul 21.15 RIGOLETTO Verdi Inc D: Philipp Stölzl C: tbc Cast includes: Stephen Costello, Franco Vassallo and Hila Fahima New Production Venue: Floating Stage

FLIGHTS British Airways20 Jul London Heathrow - Zürich dep: 12.10 arr: 15.00 24 Jul Zürich - London Heathrow dep: 15.50 arr: 16.40 Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, one lunch, welcome drink, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first or second category ticket for each performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

*Please contact us should you wish to upgrade to a lake side facing view with or without a balcony.

BREGENZ FESTIVAL – A UNIQUE OPERA STAGE


20 – 24 July 2019 Tour code: BRE1


A must on any opera lover’s calendar, the spectacle of opera on the beautiful Lake Constance in Bregenz offers an unforgettable experience. 2019 sees a new production of Verdi’s Rigoletto, whilst the Festspielhaus offers his Messa da Requiem, the composer’s choral masterpiece and lighter fare with Massenet’s comic opera Don Quichotte. Great cultural offerings in the most unique of settings!

SAT 20 JUL Arrive mid-afternoon in Zürich and approx. 2 hour transfer by private coach to the 4-star Hotel Bad Schachen in Lindau on the south-facing shore of Lake Constance. Welcome drink upon arrival and dinner that night in the hotel.

SUN 21 JUL Travel the short distance by coach along Lake Constance to Bregenz for a late morning performance of Massenet’s comedy Don Quichotte in the Festspielhaus. This is followed by a 3-course lunch at a local restaurant and a guided backstage tour of the Festival Complex. Return to the hotel in Lindau for the evening and dinner at leisure.

MON 22 JUL Join your guide for a walking tour of Lindau island, exploring its medieval town and picturesque location. Choose from one of the many restaurants on the island for lunch and

enjoy a stroll before returning to the hotel. There is time to relax before departing for Bregenz and a performance of Verdi’s Requiem, conducted by Fabio Luisi with a cast of four outstanding soloists.

TUE 23 JUL Spend the day at leisure and maybe take advantage of the Bad Schachen Spa or indoor pool. A special barbecue dinner is provided at the hotel before departing for Bregenz. The journey on this occasion is by boat, crossing Lake Constance and watching the breathtaking lake stage come into view whilst sipping a glass of sparkling wine. Tonight’s performance is Verdi’s powerful and tragic opera Rigoletto, which is being performed for the first time on the Festival’s floating stage.

WED 24 JUL Transfer to Zürich for the afternoon flight to London.


opera

“We have always enjoyed travelling with you. Each and every trip so far has been of

high quality and well beyond expectations.”Mrs K, London

LINDAU ISLAND

BREGENZ OPERA HOUSE

THU 1 AUG Late morning arrival in Bologna and transfer to Macerata in Le Marche (approx. 3 hours). Stop en route for lunch in Gabicce Monte before arrival and check-in at the 3-star Hotel Lauri in the city centre.

FRI 2 AUG The day starts with a walking tour of the historic city of Macerata, visiting the 18th-century Palazzo Buonaccorsi - with its Hall of the Aeneid filled with rococo paintings depicting a series of events from Virgil’s epic - and home to a carriage museum. In the afternoon walk in the footsteps of great performing artists such as Pavarotti and Nureyev during a behind-the-scenes visit to the Arena Sferisterio. The first opera of the tour is Verdi’s Rigoletto.

SAT 3 AUG Morning visit to the nearby town of Tolentino to view the rare triple-faced clock tower, Basilica di San Nicola, Palazzo Parisani Bezzi and the Chapel of San Catervo which contains a 4th-century marble sarcophagus with its original dedicatory inscription to a Roman nobleman Flavius Julius Catervus who reputedly brought Christianity to Tolentino. Lunch is in a local restaurant before returning to Macerata. The performance that night is a new production of Bizet’s Carmen.

SUN 4 AUG Visit to the ancient town of Recanati and Villa Colloredo Mels which houses a collection of paintings from the 14th to the 20th century. This is

followed by a tour of the museum dedicated to the great tenor Beniamino Gigli who was born in Recanati in 1890. A large number of costumes, music scores and numerous honours and awards received by the tenor during his forty-year career can be viewed. Lunch is at a local restaurant before returning to Macerata for the afternoon and dinner at leisure. Pre-opera drinks are on offer before the evening performance of Verdi’s Macbeth.

MON 5 AUG Spend the morning shopping, sightseeing or just relaxing before transferring to Bologna for the evening flight home. Lunch in a local restaurant en route to the airport.

PROGRAMME AT THE ARENA SFERISTERIO

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, four lunches, pre-opera drinks, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

MACERATA OPERA FESTIVAL


1 – 5 August 2019 Tour code: MAC1


The 55th Macerata Opera Festival sees a new production of Bizet’s Carmen and the welcome return of Emma Dante’s award-winning Macbeth and its widely-acclaimed production of Rigoletto. ‘Rossodesiderio’ - or ‘red as desire’ - is the theme for the 2019 Festival, conveyed by jealousy, power and possession in these three dramatic operas, all presented in the magnificent Arena Sferisterio, a 19th-century games arena.

MACBETH

2 Aug 21.00 RIGOLETTO Verdi Inc D: Federico Grazzini C: Giampaolo Bisanti Cast: Enea Scala, Amartuvshin Enkhbat, Claudia Pavone, Simon Orifila, Martina Belli

3 Aug 21.00 CARMEN Bizet Inc D: Jacopo Spirei C: Francesco Lanzillotta Cast: Irene Roberts, Migran Agadzhanyan, David Bizic, Valentina Mastrangelo New production

4 Aug 21.00 MACBETH Verdi Inc D: Emma Dante C: Francesco Ivan Ciampa Cast: Roberto Frontali, Alex Esposito, Saioa Hernandez, Giovanni Sala

Please note: There are many cobbles and a steep slope towards the Sferisterio, so may not be suitable for anyone unsteady on their feet. Taxis can be taken if necessary.

FLIGHTS British Airways1 Aug London Heathrow - Bologna dep: 08.00 arr: 11.105 Aug Bologna - London Heathrow dep: 18.50 arr: 20.10Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1750 Club Europe flight upgrade from £300 Land-only tour price £1580 Deposit required £350


opera

MACERATA

ARENA SFERISTERIO

A CELEBRATION OF PLÁCIDO DOMINGO IN VERONA


2 – 5 August 2019 Tour code: VRN1

In 2019 Verona celebrates Plácido Domingo who made his Italian debut at the Arena in 1969. Domingo will conduct one performance of Bizet’s masterpiece Carmen and will be the star of a special night dedicated to this great artist in which he will be both baritone and conductor. In addition, Verdi’s Aida returns to the Arena in a historically-inspired production.


opera

“I have travelled with you a number of times and always enjoy the tours. Travel for the Arts is always my first choice due to the quality of the tours and staff.”Miss B, Devon

PLÁCIDO DOMINGO © GREG GORMAN LAO / COURTESY OF FONDAZIONE ARENA DI VERONA

FRI 2 AUG Arrive at Verona airport in the afternoon and transfer the short distance to the 4-star Hotel Colomba d’Oro in the heart of Verona. Welcome dinner in a local restaurant, after which there is the option to relax or see Bizet’s Carmen at the Arena, conducted that night only by Plácido Domingo.

SAT 3 AUG This morning enjoy a walking tour of Verona, taking in Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori, the civic centre of Verona. A travel pass is included for independent visits to three notable churches. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure for you to further enjoy the splendours of this historic city. The performance that night is Verdi’s Aida in a production inspired by the first stage design of the opera which opened the Festival in 1913.

SUN 4 AUG Depart for Piacenza for a tour of this picturesque city. Visits include the Basilica with its 8-sided tower and 17th-century frescoes, the Loggia del Capitano and the Palladian Teatro Olimpico with its stunning interiors and listed by UNESCO. The tour ends with lunch in a local restaurant before returning to Verona. That night the Arena hosts the ‘Plácido Domingo 50 Arena Anniversary Night’, with newly-staged acts from three of Verdi’s operas with other artists performing alongside the world’s great opera star.

MON 5 AUG Spend the morning and lunch at leisure before transferring to the airport for the afternoon flight home.

PROGRAMME

2 Aug 20.45 CARMEN Bizet £192 D: Hugo di Ana C: Plácido Domingo

3 Aug 20.45 AIDA Verdi Inc D: Gianfranco de Bosio C: tbc

4 Aug 20.45 PLÁCIDO DOMINGO Inc 50 ARENA ANNIVERSARY NIGHT Programme: Scenes from Verdi's Nabucco, I due Foscari, Macbeth

Full casting will be confirmed in Spring 2019

FLIGHTS Easyjet2 Aug London Gatwick - Verona dep: 13.15 arr: 16.20 5 Aug Verona - London Gatwick dep: 16.50 arr: 17.55Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1895 Single room supplement £375 Land-only tour price £1750 Deposit required £450Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, one lunch, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first or second category ticket for each performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera

ARENA DI VERONA © ENNEVI / COURTESY OF FONDAZIONE ARENA DI VERONA

CARMEN © ENNEVI / COURTESY OF FONDAZIONE ARENA DI VERONA

PIAZZA DELLE ERBE

THE ROSSINI OPERA FESTIVAL IN PESARO


17 - 21 August 2019 Tour code: PES1

NEW PRODUCTIONS

This annual Festival is entirely devoted to Pesaro’s most famous son, the composer (and gourmet) Gioachino Rossini. The 2019 Festival offers the opportunity to hear two early works – Demetrio e Polibio and L’equivoco stravagante – both written when Rossini was still a teenager, and the more mature Semiramide – a true gem of bel canto. As ever, Pesaro attracts some of the best singers, conductors and directors in the world of opera.

DEMETRIO E POLIBIO © STUDIO AMATI BACCIARDI

SAT 17 AUG Arrive late afternoon in Bologna and transfer to Pesaro (approx. 2 hours). Check in at the 4-star Hotel Savoy, situated in the heart of Pesaro, and then enjoy a light dinner in a local restaurant.

SUN 18 AUG Join your guide for a morning walking tour ‘in the footsteps of Rossini’. View a section of the 6th-century mosaic floor at the Cathedral before spending time at Casa Rossini, the great composer’s birthplace and now a museum housing a large collection of memorabilia. Lunch and the afternoon at leisure before the evening performance at Teatro Rossini of Demetrio e Polibio, Rossini’s first attempt at a full-scale opera, written when he was still a student.

MON 19 AUG Spend the morning discovering the ancient town of Fano. Highlights include the Roman Arch of Augustus, the 12th-century Cathedral,

Palazzo del Podestà and the Malatesta tombs. Return to Pesaro for lunch in a local restaurant. The afternoon is free for independent exploration or relaxation before transferring to the Adriatic Arena for L’equivoco stravagante, or The Curious Misunderstanding, another early work by Rossini.

TUE 20 AUG The day is spent at Rimini, one of Italy’s most famous seaside resorts, replete with ancient Roman and Renaissance monuments. Accompanied by a local guide, visit the city’s Arch of Augustus, Tempio Malatestiano, Bridge of Tiberius, the recently-excavated Surgeon’s House and the City Museum. Lunch in a local restaurant before returning to Pesaro. The performance that evening is a new production of Semiramide, based on Voltaire’s tragedy Semiramis, at the Adriatic Arena.

WED 21 AUG Spend the morning as you wish and enjoy a lunch of your choice before transferring to Bologna for the evening flight home.

PROGRAMME

18 Aug 20.00 DEMETRIO E POLIBIO Rossini Inc D: Davide Livermore C: Paolo Arrivabene Venue: Teatro Rossini

19 Aug 20.00 L’EQUIVOCO STRAVAGANTE Rossini Inc D: Moshe Leiser and Patrice Caurier C: Carlo Rizzi Venue: Adriatic Arena New production

20 Aug 20.00 SEMIRAMIDE Rossini Inc D: Graham Vick C: Michele Mariotti Venue: Adriatic Arena New production

Full casting will be confirmed in Spring 2019

FLIGHTS British Airways17 Aug London Heathrow - Bologna dep: 14.45 arr: 17.5521 Aug Bologna - London Heathrow dep: 18.50 arr: 20.10Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1995 Single room supplement £400 Club Europe flight upgrade from £350 Land-only tour price £1,850 Deposit required £450Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, two lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera

“First class experience, professionally managed,

friendly group.”Mr and Mrs H, Cleveland

PIAZZA DEL POPOLO

BUST OF GIOACHINO ROSSINI

THE SALZBURG FESTIVAL


28 August – 2 September 2019 Tour code: SZG2

NEW PRODUCTIONS

Many of the world’s greatest artists will gather in the city of Mozart to deliver a programme of musical depth and discovery with two new productions: Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra, conducted by Valery Gergiev, and Offenbach’s entertaining Orhpée aux Enfers, plus a concert performance of Verdi’s Luisa Miller starring Plácido Domingo, Nino Machaidze and Piotr Beczała. Andris Nelsons conducts the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig and pianist Murray Perahia performs with the Vienna Philharmonic under the baton of the legendary Bernard Haitink.

WIENERPHILHARMONIKER © ANNEZEUNER / SALZBURG FESTIVAL

WED 28 AUG Morning arrival in Salzburg and transfer to either the comfortable 4-star Hotel NH Salzburg City or the luxurious 5-star Hotel Bristol, both located in the city centre. Early welcome dinner at the award-winning gourmet restaurant Carpe Diem in the Old Town before the option of the evening’s orchestral performance.

THU 29 AUG Morning excursion to the beautiful Bavarian Alps and Berchtesgaden, a town steeped in myths and legends. Visit the Royal Palace with its antique furniture, exquisite porcelain and paintings and take in the splendid view from the Upper Rose Garden. Lunch is at the nearby spectacular Edelweiss

restaurant where you can enjoy haute cuisine and stunning panoramic vistas of the Alps and the imposing Watzmann mountain. Return to Salzburg in the afternoon in time for the opera performance.

FRI 30 AUG A late morning concert performance is followed by an independent lunch and the afternoon at leisure before the opera performance that evening.

SAT 31 AUG A guided walking tour of Salzburg will allow you to visit some of the most important sights of the city such as the Mozarteum, Landestheater, Mirabell Palace and the Cathedral, as well as some lesser-known places of interest.

Lunch will be served at restaurant M32 located in the Museum of Modern Art and overlooking the historic district of Salzburg. The afternoon is at leisure before the evening opera performance.

SUN 1 SEP This morning there will be backstage tours of the main Festival houses: the Grosses Festspielhaus, Haus für Mozart and the Felsenreitschule, subject to rehearsal schedules. The afternoon is at leisure to further enjoy this magnificent baroque city. Farewell dinner at the elegant restaurant Sacher.

MON 2 SEP Transfer to the airport for the late morning flight home.

PROGRAMME

28 Aug 21.00 GEWANDHAUSORCHESTER LEIPZIG Optional C: Andris Nelsons Programme: Bruckner - Symphony No. 8 in C minor, WAB 108 Venue: Grosses Festspielhaus

29 Aug 19.00 SIMON BOCCANEGRA Verdi Inc D: Andreas Kriegenburg C: Valery Gergiev Cast: Luca Salsi, Marina Rebeka, René Pape, Charles Castronovo, André Heyboer, Antonio Di Matteo Venue: Grosses Festspielhaus New production

30 Aug 11.00 VIENNA PHILHARMONIC Inc C: Bernard Haitink Piano: Murray Perahia Programme: Beethoven - Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G, Op. 58 Bruckner - Symphony No. 7 in E, WAB 107 Venue: Grosses Festspielhaus

30 Aug 19:00 ORPHÉE AUX ENFERS Offenbach Inc D: Barrie Kosky C: Enrique Mazzola Cast: Marcel Beekman, Martin Winkler, Joel Prieto, Kathryn Lewek, Max Hopp, Anne Sofie von Otter, Peter Renz, Vasilisa Berzhanskaya, Frances Pappas, Lea Desandre, Nadine Weissman Venue: Haus für Mozart New production

31 Aug 19.00 LUISA MILLER Verdi Inc C: James Conlon Cast: Nino Machaidze, Piotr Beczała, Plácido Domingo, Roberto Tagliavini, John Relyea, Teresa Iervolino Venue: Grosses Festspielhaus Concert performance

Tickets are on request and will not be confirmed until Spring 2019

FLIGHTS British Airways28 Aug London Gatwick - Salzburg dep: 06.45 arr: 09.452 Sep Salzburg - London Gatwick dep: 11.40 arr: 12.40Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price (4-star Hotel NH) £3325 Single room supplement £490 Tour price (5-star Hotel Bristol) £3925 Single room supplement £500 Club Europe flight upgrade from £300 Land-only discount £230 Deposit required £1000*High deposit due to great demand for tickets. Deposits will only be refunded if we are unsuccessful in obtaining tickets for our included performances.

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, two lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first or second category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.



OUTSTANDING ARTISTS AT THE ENESCU FESTIVAL IN BUCHAREST


10 – 14 September 2019 Tour code: BUC1

As well as visiting Romania’s capital city of Bucharest and beautiful mountain resort of Sinaia, this tour offers the opportunity to hear great orchestras and musicians. Sir Bryn Terfel sings a special programme of Wagnerian arias and traditional song, cellist Gautier Capuçon and pianist Leif Ove Andsnes all perform at the George Enescu Festival, themed ‘The World in Harmony’. There is a possibility of meeting the charismatic violinist and conductor Maxim Vengerov, one of the greatest artists on the concert platform today.

ROMANIAN ATHENAEUM

TUE 10 SEP Late afternoon arrival in Bucharest and transfer to the 5-star Radisson Blu, located within a short distance on foot to the ornate Romanian Athenauem, the city’s main concert hall. Welcome dinner in the hotel or a local restaurant.

WED 11 SEP Walking tour of the Old Town. Wander through the narrow streets and take in the mix of history, local culture, architecture and churches, particularly the 18th-century Stavropoleos monastery. The oldest landmark is the Old Court, the residence of medieval princes, including the notorious Vlad the Impaler. Lunch and early afternoon at leisure. The late afternoon’s concert programme is a blend of Romanian and Russian music. After the performance, there may be the possibility to meet the renowned Siberian violinist and conductor Maxim Vengerov.

THU 12 SEP Morning tour of Bucharest with its boulevards and curious blend of pre-war Art Nouveau grandeur and post-war brutalism that make for a unique and evocative aesthetic. Highlights include the gargantuan Parliament Palace, erected under the Ceausescu regime in the 1980s and the world’s second largest administrative building after the Pentagon. Head then to the shores of Herăstrău Lake and the National Village Museum, one of Europe’s oldest open-air museums. Lunch and the afternoon at leisure before a special recital by Sir Bryn Terfel.

FRI 13 SEP Full day tour to the town and mountain resort of Sinaia. Visit the Art Nouveau splendour of Pelisor Castle and Peles, the world's first castle fully powered by locally-produced electricity. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant and there will also be a

visit to the George Enescu Memorial House. Return to Bucharest for the evening concert.

SAT 14 SEP Spend the morning at leisure before a farewell lunch at a local restaurant. Transfer to the airport for the evening flight home.

PROGRAMME

11 Sep 17.00 ORCHESTRE PHILHARMONIQUE Inc DE MONTE CARLO C: Maxim Vengerov Violin: Maxim Vengerov Cello: Gautier Capuçon Programme includes: Enescu - Ballade for Violin and orchestra Tchaikovsky - Andante Cantabile in B major Venue: Romanian Athenaeum

12 Sep 17.00 ORCHESTRE PHILHARMONIQUE Inc DE MONTE CARLO C: Gareth Jones Baritone: Sir Bryn Terfel Programme includes: Verdi - ‘L’onore! Ladri!’ from Falstaff Wagner - ‘Was duftet doch der Flieder’ from Die Meistersinger Venue: Romanian Athenaeum


classical music

“The planning of the holiday was meticulous

and excellent. Thank you.”

Mr D, Glasgow

FLIGHTS British Airways10 Sep London Heathrow - Bucharest dep: 11.50 arr: 17.1014 Sep Bucharest – London Heathrow dep: 19.25 arr: 20.55Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour price £1835 Single room supplement £320 Club Europe flight upgrade from £400 Land-only tour price £1695 Deposit required £400Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, one dinner, two lunches, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.

13 Sep 19.30 OSLO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Inc C: Vasily Petrenko Piano: Leif Ove Andsnes Programme includes: Øyvind Torvund - New Work for Orchestra Grieg - Piano Concerto in A minor op. 16 Venue: Grand Palace Hall

Tickets are on request and further details will be provided in the Spring.

*Please note that Travel for the Arts cannot confirm this meeting with Maxim Vengerov until closer to the performance date.

MAXIM VENGEROV © B EALOVEGA

THE VERDI FESTIVAL IN PARMA


2 – 6 October 2019 Tour code: PMF1

NEW PRODUCTIONS

The food capital of Italy, Parma is also a city of art and great music. Its annual Verdi Festival offers an insight into the life and works of its local and much-loved composer, Giuseppe Verdi. Hear the famous Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves in Nabucco, the triumphal March from Aida and the romantic drama of Luisa Miller in three stunning theatrical venues.

GIUSEPPE VERDI STATUE IN PARMA

WED 2 OCT Early evening arrival in Bologna and transfer by coach to Parma (approx. 1 hour). Check in at the centrally-located 4-star Hotel Sina Maria Luigia then enjoy a welcome dinner.

THU 3 OCT Start the day with a tour of Parma, visiting the striking octagonal Baptistry and the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with its famous ceiling fresco by Correggio, considered a masterpiece of Renaissance art. Further works by Correggio can be viewed in the sumptuous Camera di San Paolo. Also visit the stunning Teatro Farnese, built from wood and plaster and painted to seem like marble. The theatre was almost entirely destroyed during the war, but subsequently restored to become one of the most breathtaking in all of Italy. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure in Parma, offering the opportunity to experience the culinary delights of what is considered by many the gourmet capital

of Italy. The performance that night at the opulent Teatro Regio is Nabucco, the opera Verdi claimed was the one with which his artistic career really began.

FRI 4 OCT The morning is free for further independent discovery of the historic city of Parma, whilst the afternoon is dedicated to Verdi with time spent at Villa Verdi in Sant’Agata, the great composer’s home for more than 50 years. This is followed by visits to his birthplace in the village of Le Roncole and Casa Barezzi in Busseto, where Verdi gave his earliest public performance and also fell in love with his first wife Margherita Barezzi. Dinner is at the local restaurant ‘I due Foscari’, formerly owned by the great tenor Carlo Bergonzi. The evening performance is Aida at the ornate, yet intimate Teatro Verdi in Busseto, after which there is an approximate 45-minute coach journey back to Parma.

SAT 5 OCT A late morning backstage tour of the Teatro Regio offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the

workings of this magnificent theatre, one of the most beautiful in Italy. The rest of the day is at leisure for independent sightseeing and shopping before an optional final evening performance of Luisa Miller.

SUN 6 OCT Transfer to Bologna for the homeward flight.

PROGRAMME

3 Oct time tbc NABUCCO Verdi Inc Venue: Teatro Regio, Parma New production

4 Oct time tbc AIDA Verdi Inc Venue: Teatro Verdi, Buseto

5 Oct time tbc LUISA MILLER Verdi £230 Venue: tbc New production

Production teams and casting will be confirmed in early 2019.

FLIGHTS British Airways2 Oct London Heathrow - Bologna dep: 14.55 arr: 18.05 6 Oct Bologna - London Heathrow dep: 12.20 arr: 13.40Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)


Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, two dinners, sightseeing tours as described including guides and entrance fees, first category ticket for each included performance, opera synopses, restaurant guide and city notes, the services of our local representative or tour manager.


opera

TEATRO REGIO

NABUCCO

THU 21 MAR Afternoon arrival in Nice and transfer by coach (approx. 40 minutes) to Monte Carlo to check into the Novotel Monte Carlo where we will have an early dinner before the evening concert.

FRI 22 MAR Morning visit to the neighbouring coastal village of Villefranche with its 12th century old town and waterfront quay. Lunch is under your own arrangements. We then travel back to Monte Carlo for an afternoon at leisure before an early dinner in the hotel followed by the evening concert.

SAT 23 MAR Morning walking tour of Monte Carlo before a free afternoon, early dinner and evening concert.

SUN 24 MAR A free morning to explore Monte Carlo before embarking on the 'Voyage Surprise' trip out of Monte Carlo to a mystery destination with musical entertainment. Return to Monte Carlo in the evening for dinner under your own arrangements.

MON 25 MAR Enjoy the morning at leisure in Monte Carlo before transferring to Nice airport for the return flight home.

PRINTEMPS DES ARTS IN MONTE CARLO


21 – 25 March 2019 Tour code: MCA1

A CARPENTER HOLIDAY

Enjoy some early spring sun in the beautiful setting of Monte Carlo where we join the annual “Printemps des Arts” Festival featuring a variety of music from solo piano, string quartet to full orchestral performed by the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte Carlo. Sightseeing trips including Villefranche sur Mer, the beautiful coastal village along the coast from Monaco, a walking tour of Monte Carlo and an afternoon on the "Voyage Surprise" organised by the Festival.

The Festivals in Monte Carlo and Ossiach promise a feast of good music performed by leading musicians from around the world and in such different and magical settings! I hope that you will be attracted by the programmes and be tempted to join these tours featuring such artists as the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte Carlo performing Brahms and Mendelssohn and the Alban Berg Ensemble Wien which has made a huge impact on audiences in Austria and whom we will join at their annual festival on the shores of the Ossiach Lake.

Stephen Carpenter Director, Carpenter Holidays

Over the past three years, Travel for the Arts has enjoyed a fruitful collaboration with Stephen Carpenter who has led holidays to the Lake District Summer Music Festival, the Schubertiade in Schwarzenberg in Austria and his ‘Mendelssohn in Scotland’ tour. We are delighted to announce visits to Printemps des Arts in Monte Carlo and BergFrühling Festival in Ossiach in the New Year, details of which can be found here, and on the websites www.travelforthearts.com and www.carpenterholidays.com. This holiday will be arranged and led by Stephen Carpenter in association with Travel for the Arts and will be fully covered by our ABTA and ATOL membership.

in association with CARPENTER HOLIDAYS

TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS

carpenter holidays

Welcome to CARPENTER HOLIDAYS

“Thanks again for organising such an enjoyable visit.”Mr L, May 2017, Whittington Festival

“Scotland and the Lake District are among the best holidays I’ve ever had and I do hope that there will be many more to come in the future!”Miss D, August 2017, Mendelssohn in Scotland and Lake District


ORCHESTRE PHILHARMONIQUE DE MONTE CARLO © JC VINAJ

PROGRAMME AT THE PRINTEMPS DES ARTS DE MONTE CARLO

21 Mar 20.30 RECITAL Marie Vermuellin (piano) Inc Salle Empire, Hotel de Paris

Programme: Debussy Pour le Piano Debussy Les Etudes I-VI Debussy Estampes Debussy Les Etudes VII-X

22 Mar 20.30 CONCERT Quatour Diotime Inc Salle Empire, Hotel de Paris

Programme: Alexandro Markeas Die neuen ruinen von Athen (new commission) Beethoven String Quartet in C sharp minor, Op. 131

23 Mar 20.30 CONCERT Orchestre Inc Philarmonique de Monte Carlo

Auditorium Rainier III Conductor: Michai Nesterowicz Piano: Philippe Bianconi Programme:

Mendelssohn Overture – Athalie Op. 74 Brahms Piano Concerto No 1 in D minor, Op. 15 Mendelssohn Overture – Ruy Blas Op. 95 Brahms Piano Concerto No 2 in B flat major Op. 83


carpenter holidays

ORCHESTRE PHILHARMONIQUE DE MONTE CARLO © JC VINAJ

Tour price includes: Accommodation, breakfast daily, three dinners with wine, best ticket for each included performance, concert programmes, sightseeing trips as described, international flight from London to Nice and the services of Stephen Carpenter as tour manager.

FLIGHTS

British Airways 21 Mar London Heathrow - Nice dep: 11.50 arr: 15.00 25 Mar Nice - London Heathrow dep: 15.50 arr: 16.55Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour Price £1395 Single Supplement £260 Club Europe flight upgrade from £300 Land-only tour price £1325 Deposit £300

MONTE CARLO

MONTE CARLO

MONTE CARLO

BERGFRÜHLING FESTIVAL IN OSSIACH


29 MAY – 2 JUNE 2019 Tour code: OSS1

A CARPENTER HOLIDAY

The beautiful Ossiacher See is located in the Carinthia region in Southern Austria. It was the summer retreat of the musical Berg family, and the Alban Berg Ensemble Wien has created a Festival of chamber music in Ossiach, centred around the new 500-seater Alban Berg Saal and the Pfaffkirche St Georg. As well as enjoying five concerts at the Festival, we will take a trip to the tiny village of Gurk where we will explore the extraordinary Cathedral with its splendid Baroque interior. We will stay at the Seewirt Hotel or similar overlooking the Lake and a short walk from the concert venues.


WED 29 MAY Arrive in Vienna and transfer by coach approx. 3.5 hour via Graz and Klagenfurt to check into the Seewirt Hotel in Ossiach. Dinner at the hotel.

THU 30 MAY Morning visit to Gurk Cathedral, built between 1140 and 1200 and one of the most important Romanesque buildings in Austria. We will have a guided tour of the Cathedral followed by an independent lunch in the village. Return to Ossiach to rest before an early dinner in the hotel followed by the evening concert.

FRI 31 MAY Morning and evening concerts with a 2.5 hour boat trip on the Ossiacher See in between.

SAT 1 JUN Morning and evening concerts with a free afternoon in Ossiach. Late afternoon exclusive talk from the President of the Berg Foundation, giving details of Berg’s association with Ossiach, and the planning of the Festival.

SUN 2 JUN Return journey by coach approx. 3.5 hour to Vienna airport for the flight home.

carpenter holidays

OSSIACHER SEE

THE HARP FOUNTAIN IN OSSIACH


carpenter holidays

PROGRAMME AT THE BERGFRÜHLING FESTIVAL 2019

30 May 19.00 OPENING CONCERT – ALBAN BERG SAAL Programme: Mahler (arranged Erwin Stein for chamber ensemble) Symphony No 4 in E flat Followed by champagne reception

31 May 11.00 CONCERT – ALBAN BERG SAAL Programme: Berg Seven Early Songs arranged for soprano and ensemble Respighi Il Tramonto for mezzo-soprano and String Quartet Brahms Clarinet Trio in A minor Op 114

31 May 19.00 CONCERT – ALBAN BERG SAAL Programme: Mozart Flute Quartet in D, K 285 Schoenberg Chamber Symphony Op 9 (arranged Anton Webern) Mahler Symphony No 10 Adagio (arranged for the Alban Berg Ensemble Wien)

Tour price includes: Flights and airport taxes, group transfers from and to airport and for included activities where applicable, accommodation, breakfast daily, three dinners with wine, sightseeing tours as described including entrance fees, best ticket for each included performance, the services of Stephen Carpenter as tour manager.

FLIGHTSBritish Airways 29 May London Heathrow - Vienna dep 10.00 arr 13.30 2 Jun Vienna - London Heathrow dep 19.10 arr 20.30Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.

PRICE (PER PERSON)

Tour Price £1495 Single room supplement £240 Club Europe flight upgrade from £350 Land-only tour price £1350 Deposit required £400

1 May 11.00 CONCERT – PFAFFKIRCHE ST GEORG Programme: Wagner “Particular Piece” for 4 cellos Janacek “On Adult Paths” for 4 cellos Debussy Syrinx for solo flute Janacek String Quartet No 1 “Kreuzter Sonata”

1 May 19.30 ALBAN BERG SAAL Programme: Schubert Minuet and Trios for String Quintet and double bass, D 89 Berg Adagio from the Violin Concerto Richard Strauss Der Rosenkavalier Suite

All concerts performed by the Alban Berg Ensemble Wien

ALBAN BERG ENSEMBLE WIEN © GUENTER MIK

GURK CATHEDRAL

ALBAN BERG SAAL © JOHANNES PUCH

Travel for the Arts à la Carte is designed for clients who prefer to travel independently. Our expert consultants offer a complete bespoke planning and booking service, taking care of travel, accommodation and performance tickets in any music or ballet destination you choose.

• With over 30 years’ experience in arranging travel for groups and individuals, we are often able to source tickets for the most sought-after performances, many featuring the star performers of the day.

• We tailor your itinerary for the dates you wish to travel and for the performances you wish to see. We can also offer suggestions based on your requirements, providing seasonal opera and ballet programmes and making recommendations.

• We arrange your travel to suit your needs and can investigate journeys by air, rail or even private jet. We also offer private transfers on arrival or departure.

• We are able to book your own choice of hotel or offer advice on suitable alternatives.

• We can advise on and arrange unique bespoke experiences such as backstage tours, guided sightseeing, restaurant bookings and access to other cultural events.

Whether to celebrate a special occasion or simply as a short break, let Travel for the Arts create an unforgettable opera, ballet and classical music experience just for you.

OPERA, BALLET CLASSICAL MUSICÀ LA CARTE

36

à la carte

37

à la carte

CHINARA ALIZADE AND VLADIMIR YAROSHENKO © EWA KRASUCKA /TEATR WIELKI - POLISH NATIONAL OPERA 37

HOW TO BOOKTelephone our designated à la Carte line on 020 8799 8354

or email [email protected] for a quotation.

Your itinerary will be individually designed to meet your requirements.

“As always, I find Travel for the Arts the right people to arrange my a la carte trips.”

Mr M, Yorkshire

Tel: 020 8799 8350 | Email: [email protected] | www.travelforthearts.com38

terms and conditions

1. ABOUT TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS1.1 Your contract will be with Specialised Travel Ltd trading as TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS, whose registered office is at 12-15 Hanger Green, London W5 3EL, telephone number 020 8799 8350 and email address [email protected], which is a fully bonded member of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) (ABTA number V7795) and appointed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).1.2 The air holidays and flights in our brochures & promotional material are ATOL protected (as detailed in clause 1.3 below), since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2178. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.caa.co.uk, the CAA can be contacted at 45-59 Kingsway, London WC2B 6TE.

YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION1.3 We provide financial protection for our package holidays.a) When you buy a flight-based holiday from us, you will receive financial protection for your

flight-based holiday under our ATOL licence (detailed above), and you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

b) We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).

c) If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.

1.4 Financial protection for non-flight packages is provided to you as bonded members of ABTA. When you buy a package holiday from us that does not include a flight, then financial protection is provided by way of our ABTA bond (please see www.abta.co.uk, who can be contacted at 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ), as per the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.

2. TO MAKE A BOOKING2.1 When you make a booking you must complete the Booking Form accepting on your own behalf and on behalf of all your party (for whom you have authority to accept) the terms of these Booking Conditions and pay a deposit of the amount per person specified in the relevant brochure, or in the case of an independent holiday, the amount specified in writing by our staff at the time of booking, plus insurance premium and any additional performance tickets ordered. A contract will exist when we issue our confirmation invoice. Your contract will consist of these Booking Conditions, the completed Booking Form and the contents of the relevant brochure. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit (calculated as a percentage of your holiday cost) per person and as notified to you at the time of booking. Where you have provided us with card payment details in the Booking Form as your payment method for the deposit (and any insurance premium and additional performance tickets), we shall take payment from your card at the time we issue our confirmation invoice to you.2.2 The contract is governed by English law and the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. You may however choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you live there and wish to do so.2.3 The balance of the price of your holiday must be paid at least 8 weeks before the departure date. If the balance is not paid in time, we reserve the right to cancel your holiday and retain your deposit. If you paid your deposit by card and wish to authorise us to take payment of the balance on or just after the due date for payment using the same card, you may do so by ticking the relevant box in the Booking Form.2.4 We make no charge if you pay by cheque, personal credit card, debit card or by electronic transfer. However, should you choose to make payment by commercial credit card, or you are a card holder outside the EEA, we will make a charge of 2% of the total price of the holiday.

3. WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE3.1 We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in the promotional literature, in accordance with these Booking Conditions. The current price of the holiday will be notified to you before your contract is confirmed.3.2 All Travel for the Arts tours are inclusive of the following:Round trip Economy Class air travel on scheduled or charter airline(s) specified (aircraft type not known when going to press) including local airport taxes and security charges; or Eurostar Passenger Service.Hotel accommodation at the hotels shown in the relevant promotional literature (or similar grade) in twin bedded rooms with private bathroom or shower and w.c. Double rooms and single rooms are available on request. NB: We are well aware of the considerable distress which can sometimes be experienced by those travelling alone when “single rooms” do not appear to come up to the standards expected. At all times we strive to overcome this on our clients’ behalf (but can offer no guarantees) and sometimes it pays to take double or twin for sole occupancy.Round trip private transfers from airports or local railway stations to hotels.Hotel service charges and local taxes.Sightseeing tour programme as detailed in each itinerary including admission charges and guide services.The services of a Travel for the Arts Tour Manager or local representative.NB: If you have any special requests relating to diet, accommodation and so forth, these must be made known at the time of booking. We will do our best to comply with them but cannot guarantee to do so (also see clause 13 below).3.3 We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of your travel arrangements can be made due to changes in: transportation costs i.e. the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources; the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports; or exchange rates, which means that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However, there will be no change within 20 days of your departure. We will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, excluding insurance premiums and any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your travel arrangements,

you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (and we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancel and receive a full refund of all moneys paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel: (1) you must do so within the time period shown on your final invoice; (2) we will provide a refund of insurance premiums paid to us if you can show that you are unable to transfer of reuse your policy. Whether you cancel or not you will also be entitled, under the terms set out in respect of major changes (Alterations and Cancellations by us) to accept from us an offer of alternative travel arrangements if we are able to do so and compensation as set out below.3.4 Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.3.5 Please note that in accordance with Air Navigation Orders, in order to qualify for infant status, a child must be under 2 years of age on the date of its return flight.

4. ALTERATIONS AND CANCELLATIONS BY YOU4.1 If, after our confirmation has been issued, you wish to change to another of our holidays or modify, at any time, the travel arrangements and/or tour itineraries shown, we will do our utmost to make the changes provided that notification is received in writing at our offices from the person who signed the Booking Form. We reserve the right to charge an administration fee of £35.00 per person in order to process that change, in addition to any further cost in making the alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Please note that certain travel arrangements (eg, concert tickets) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.4.2 You, or any member of your party, may cancel your holiday at any time provided that notice of the cancellation is made to our offices by the person signing the Booking Form and is in writing. As certain travel arrangements and bookings cannot be changed after confirmation, cancellation incurs administration costs. We will retain your deposit and the cost of any performance tickets, and in addition may apply cancellation charges up to the maximum shown in Clause 4.3 below.4.3 Period before departure within which written confirmation of cancellation is received and amount of cancellation charge shown as a percentage of the holiday price:More than 56 days .........................Holiday deposit and performance tickets 56 - 42 days ...................................................................................40% of tour price 41-31 days .....................................................................................65% of tour price 30 – day of travel ........................................................................100% of tour price4.4 No refund will be given after the commencement of travel except at our discretion. Please note that if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy then you may be able to reclaim these charges.4.5 You can cancel your booking without paying cancellation charges if the performance of your package, or the carriage of passengers to your destination, is significantly affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. In such circumstances, we will arrange for your booking to be terminated and for you to receive a full refund. We will observe advice provided by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.4.6 You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure. Both you and the new traveller are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer.

5. ALTERATIONS AND CANCELLATION BY US5.1 It is possible that we may have to make changes to your holiday (other than the price) as the arrangements are planned many months in advance. Occasionally changes may be made, and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes are insignificant and we will ensure that we advise you as early as possible. Flight timings and carriers in the promotional literature are subject to change as a result of airline procedures which are beyond our control. Flight timings in the promotional literature are for guidance only. Actual times will be given on your ticket. In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating the flight, connecting flight (if any) and transfer. The potential carriers likely to be used are as set out in the promotional literature. Any changes to the actual airline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same standard or higher standard, changes of carriers.5.2 If a major change becomes necessary and we are constrained by circumstances beyond our control to significantly alter any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.We will inform you as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before departure. You will have the choice of either, accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of available alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us (where we offer one, we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value) or cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be cancelled.If you choose to accept a refund:i) we will provide a full refund of your travel insurance premiums if you paid them to us and can show

that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy;ii) we will pay compensation as detailed below except where the significant change is due to

unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (as defined below). 5.3 We reserve the right to cancel your booking. For example, if the minimum number of people required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached, we reserve the right to cancel the tour up to 70 days in advance. In this case we offer the choice of an alternative tour of comparable standard, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or a full refund of all monies paid. We will not cancel less than 49 days before the scheduled departure date except for reasons of unavoidable or extraordinary circumstances or your failure to pay the final balance. If your holiday is cancelled you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an alternative holiday of comparable standard from us if we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of lower value). In the event a refund is paid to you, we will:i) provide a full refund of your travel insurance premiums if you paid them to us and can show that you

are unable to transfer or reuse the policy.ii) pay compensation as detailed below except where the cancellation is due to unavoidable and

extraordinary circumstances


booking formTRAVEL FOR THE ARTS

HOW TO BOOK Please contact us by telephone (020 8799 8350) - you will speak to one of our sales team usually after three rings! If space is available on the tour of your choice you will be given a 7-day option. We will then require a completed booking form together with your deposit or full payment (see Late Bookings). You must agree to the Booking Conditions.

BOOK EARLY Many of our holidays are taken up very quickly after the brochure launch, when tours appear on our website. Sometimes they are fully booked after appearing as advanced information in our Newsletter.

LATE BOOKINGS If you book within 8 weeks of departure, you will need to provide a credit/debit card for the full amount of the holiday, or send us a cheque within 24-hours.

TOUR CODE & BOOKING REFERENCE Please include these on the booking form and quote your Booking Reference in all subsequent communications.

OPENING HOURS are Monday-Friday, 9.30-5.30. The office is closed on UK public holidays.

NAME OF TOUR / À LA CARTE DESTINATION DATES TOUR CODE (e.g. BUD1 or CPH3)

BOOKING REFERENCE

PERSONAL DETAILS (Please show names as they appear on your passport)

No. TITLE FIRST NAME FAMILY NAME

1

2

3

4

SPECIAL NEEDS/FITNESS AND MOBILITY In order to assist us in ensuring you and fellow travellers maximum comfort please indicate below any special requirements or conditions about which we should be aware.

PERSONAL DETAILS (Please show names as they appear on your passport)

No. AGE WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE SPECIAL DIET OTHER

1

2

3

4

EMERGENCY / NEXT OF KIN: (Must be completed at time of booking)

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TEL NO:

RELATIONSHIP:

NAMES AS YOU WISH TO APPEAR ON THE PARTICIPANT LIST (if different from above)

1

2

3

4

PASSPORT DETAILS (essential for airline ticketing & in case of emergency)

No. D.O.B PASSPORT No. NATIONALITY DATE DATE OF ISSUE OF EXPIRY

1

2

3

4

NB If travelling to the USA you will require a machine-readable passport

ADDRESS (for correspondence) TELEPHONE: (Day)

TELEPHONE: (Eve)

MOBILE:

EMAIL:

FAX:

TELEPHONE: 24-hours pre-departure

SPECIAL OCCASION If this holiday coincides with a special occasion, please indicate below (e.g. birthday or wedding anniversary)

Travel For The Arts 12-15 Hanger Green London W5 3EL Telephone: 020 8799 8350 Fax: 020 8998 7965 e-mail: [email protected] www.TravelfortheArts.com

Travel for the Arts is a division of Specialised Travel Ltd

ROOM TYPE CLUB CLASS Twin, Double or Single Yes or No

Tel: 020 8799 8350 | Email: [email protected] | www.travelforthearts.com40

booking form

AIRPORT PARKING / AIRPORT HOTEL / REGIONAL FLIGHTS Please send me details of: (please tick)

AIRPORT PARKING AIRPORT HOTEL

Comments:

AIRPORT LOUNGE DOMESTIC FLIGHT

No. of Places PER PERSON TOTAL

Deposit (See tour price panel) £ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OR Full payment (if booking within 8 weeks of departure) £ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Supplementary Performance £ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tickets / Services* £ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TOTAL £ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .* Payable at time of booking

REDEMPTION OF VOUCHERS If you are redeeming a voucher please attach it to your booking form. Vouchers cannot be redeemed retrospectively.

MEMBERSHIP NUMBERS If you are a Friend of Covent Garden, British Friend of the Salzburg Festival or Member of the The Wagner Society of England or New York, please complete details below:

NAME OF ORGANISATION MEMBERSHIP NO.

FINANCIAL

I wish to pay by Debit Card I wish to pay by Credit Card

I wish to pay by Cheque (Please tick box)

NB: Payment by commercial card will incur a 2% charge. No charge is made for personal cards, unless the card holder is outside the EEA.

CARD NO:

NAME ON CARD ..................................................................................................................................

DATE OF ISSUE

DATE OF EXPIRY

SECURITY CODE

ISSUE NO

Please tick this box if you would like the balance of payment charged to your card

Billing address if different from address overleaf

METHOD OF PAYMENT

OPTIONAL OR SUPPLEMENTARY PERFORMANCE TICKETS Please book the following supplementary services

DATE PERFORMANCE REQUIRED OR DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES No. REQUIRED

TRAVEL INSURANCE It is a condition of booking that you have comprehensive travel insurance for all the activities you will be undertaking whilst on holiday – please provide the details below. We can introduce you to an insurance company if you do not have any cover. Full details are shown in our Booking Terms and Conditions.

INSURANCE CO. NAME POLICY NUMBER EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE TEL No.

DECLARATION

I am over 18 years of age and I have read and understood the booking conditions, Data Protection Policy, general information and travel insurance advice and accept them on behalf of myself and the members of my party.

SIGNATURE: ........................................................................................................... DATE: .................................................................................................................................................


terms and conditions

5.4 If it is necessary to cancel your holiday (except for reasons of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances) or make a significant change after the date when payment of the balance becomes due, we will in addition pay you compensation as follows:Period before departure within which Compensation notification of change or cancellation is given per personMore than 49 days ...................................................Nil49 – 42 days........................................................£10.0041 – 25 days........................................................£20.0024 – 16 days........................................................£30.0015 – 1 days ..........................................................£40.00 Please note compensation is not payable in the case of minor changes. The compensation offered does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.‘Unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances’ means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken, including (for example) but not limited to, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport.

6. NON-APPEARANCE AND ALTERATIONS TO REPERTOIRE/ITINERARY6.1 Opera and music lovers will appreciate that performances and artists can be changed without notice. Fortunately, this is a rare occurrence but nevertheless disappointing. Every effort is made to obtain and pass on to you up to date information regarding performances and artists. This information is based upon details supplied to us by other parties and we cannot guarantee its accuracy or that there will not be further changes to the programme. The non-appearance of an artist, cancellation of event or other changes, are entirely outside our control or even the control of those organising the event. We will always do our utmost to find a suitable alternative in such a case and wherever refunds from an event organiser are received we will pass this on to you.6.2 Specific outside events – in the event of adverse weather conditions a full refund of the face value of the performance ticket will be made only if the performance fails to start. If abandonment occurs after the start, conditions of the ticket purchased prevent any refund.6.3 Please note that the order of events on itineraries is subject to alteration due to local circumstances, unscheduled closures etc. However, every effort will be made to include all elements of the programme during the tour dates or a suitable alternative which will be notified to you.

7. OUR LIABILITIES TO YOU7.1 You must inform us without undue delay of any failure to perform or improper performance of the travel services included in the package holiday sold to you by us. If any of the travel services included in your package are not performed in accordance with the contract, or any improperly performed, by us or the travel service suppliers, and this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements, you may be entitled to an appropriate price reduction or compensation, or both. However, we will not be liable where any failure to perform or improper performance of the travel services is due to you or another member of your party; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and whether the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (as defined above) beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.7.2 If an event within the itinerary is cancelled due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances within one month prior to the event, we reserve the right to refund the cost of the admission ticket to the event only.7.3 We accept responsibility for the negligent acts and/or omissions of our employees, agents or suppliers. Save for liabilities under clause 7.4 below, our liability to you in all cases (except where they lead to death, injury or illness) shall be limited to a maximum of three times the cost of the original travel arrangements.7.4 Our liability to you will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to:i) the contractual terms of the companies that provide the travel services that make up your package.

These are incorporated into this booking; andii) any relevant international conventions (for example, the Montreal Convention for travel by air, the

Athens Convention for travel by sea, the Berne Convention for travel by rail and the Paris Convention for accommodation), which limit the amount of compensation that you can claim for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of compensation contained in these or any conventions.

You can ask for copies of the travel service contractual terms, or the international conventions, from us. 7.5 If you, or any member of your party, suffers death, illness or injury whilst overseas arising out of activity which does not form part of the inclusive holiday arrangements or excursion arrangements through us (as per clause 17 below), we shall at our discretion, offer advice, guidance and assistance to help in resolving any claim you may have against a third party. We limit the cost of our assistance to you or a member of your party to £5,000.00 in total. Where legal action is contemplated and you want our assistance you must obtain our authority prior to commencement of proceedings. Our consent will be given subject to you undertaking to assign any costs, benefits received under any relevant insurance policy to ourselves.7.6 If you are prevented from travelling on an aircraft because in the opinion of any person in authority at the airport you appear, by reason of intoxicating liquor or use of drugs, either to be unfit for travel or likely to cause discomfort or disturbance to other passengers, our responsibility for your journey, including any return flight thereupon ceases. You must accept responsibility for your proper conduct and we therefore have the right to terminate our contract in circumstances of serious misconduct by you or any member of your party.7.7 Under EU law, you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be available at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. However, please note that reimbursement in such cases does not automatically entitle you to a refund of the cost of your holiday from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in these Booking Conditions. If any payments to you are due from us, then if the airline makes payment of these to you then such sum will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with such rules then you can complain to the Aviation Consumer Advocate Panel on 020 7453 6888 or www.caa.co.uk.7.8 If it is impossible to ensure your return as scheduled due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, we will bear the cost of necessary accommodation, if possible of equivalent category, for a maximum of three nights. The limit doesn’t apply to persons with reduced mobility and any person accompanying them, pregnant women and unaccompanied minors, or persons in need of specific medical assistance, provided that you notified us of these needs at least 48 hours before the start of your holiday. NB: This clause does not apply to any separate contracts that you may enter into for excursions or activities whilst on holiday.

8. DATA PROTECTION POLICYIn order to process your booking and to ensure your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements, we need to use the information you provide to us, such as name, address, contact

details and any special needs/dietary requirements. Please see our Privacy Policy for details of how we collect and process your personal data, and the personal data of those in your party. http://www.travelforthearts.com/privacy/

9. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND HEALTH9.1 You and your party’s specific passport, visa and other immigration requirements are your responsibility and we do not accept responsibility for the validity of your passports or visas or for the refusal of visas by the Issuing Authorities. You should therefore confirm these with the relevant authorities, Embassies and/or Consulates. We shall not be liable for any loss, expense, cost, damage, injury or loss of enjoyment suffered as a result of such invalidity or loss, including any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not complied with such requirements.9.2 British subjects require a passport. We will provide information about visas and health requirements and can also apply for visas on your behalf for a small fee and handling charge. If you do not hold a valid EU passport, please inform us at point of booking. Although we can apply for any visa on a client’s behalf, we cannot be held responsible for declined visas and normal cancellation charges will be levied should this occur. Higher charges may also be applied to non-British citizens and late applications which will be charged accordingly. For further advice visit the FCO website, www.fco.gov.uk, visit the ABTA website www.abta.com/gotravel or telephone ABTA on 020 3117 0599.

10. PHYSICAL HANDICAPS AND MOBILITYShould you suffer from any serious physical handicaps or experience difficulty in walking long distances and tire easily, please do bring this to our attention at the time of booking in order that we can provide the necessary assistance at airports and hotels. Please note that some of the activities on our tours may not be suitable if you have any disability or reduced mobility. In the interests of safety and comfort for the whole group, you should be fit enough to participate or alternatively have an able bodied carer with you to assist.

11. COMPLAINTS AND DISPUTES11.1 If you have a compliant about any of the services included in your holiday, you must inform the relevant supplier and our representative (whose details will be provided to you prior to the commencement of your trip) without undue delay, who will endeavour to put things right quickly. If your complaint cannot be resolved locally, your representative will ask you to make a report, the original of which is for you and a copy will be forwarded to our Head Office, as detailed on our invoice to you. Please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by writing to us giving your original tour reference number and all other relevant information. Please keep your letter concise and provide all relevant information. If you fail to follow the requirement to report your complaint during your holiday, we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify it and this may affect your rights under this booking.11.2 It is unlikely that you will have a complaint that cannot be settled amicably between us. However, disputes arising out of or in connection with this contract which cannot be amicably settled, may (if you so wish) be settled by way of an alternative dispute resolution procedure. We are a member of ABTA. We are also obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s Scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform at http://ec.europa/consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of notifying us of your compliant; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.

12. ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCEIf you’re in difficulty whilst on holiday and ask us to help we will provide appropriate assistance, in particular by providing information on health services, local authorities and consular assistance; and helping you to find alternative arrangements and any necessary phone calls/emails. You must pay any costs we incur, if the difficulty is your fault.

13. SPECIAL REQUESTSAny special requests made on your Booking Form are noted and we do our very best to comply with these wherever possible. However, although we do make every effort to meet your requirements, we cannot unfortunately give a guarantee.

14. TOUR MANAGERS AND LOCAL REPRESENTATIVESWherever possible and practical, our tours are escorted throughout by a representative from the UK. On occasions when circumstances dictate, we retain the services of a local representative to meet our clients and to escort them to cities and on excursions accompanied by our local guide.

15. TRAVEL INSURANCEIt is a condition of these Booking Conditions and your contract with us that you have comprehensive travel insurance cover. We are able to introduce you to Citybond Suretravel. Citybond Suretravel insurance is underwritten by Union Reiseversicherung AG, UK. Specialised Travel, trading as Travel for the Arts, is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Citybond Suretravel for the sale of travel insurance and we have negotiated discounts on the Citybond Suretravel schemes for our clients.Citybond Suretravel can provide a comprehensive range of travel insurance offering high levels of cover for medical emergency, repatriation, personal baggage, cancellation and much more.They are able to provide single trip policies with no upper age limit, annual multi trip policies up to age 85, long stay policies for trips up to 12 months and gap year policies for trips up to 18 months.All their policies offer the option to include existing medical conditions as well as, automatic cover for participation in over 100 sports and activities.Referral Code 56275Please use the above code to receive the premium discounts: Online at https://www.suretravel.co.uk/?intcode=56275 or by phone on Freephone 0333 207 0481 for 10%

16. SEVERABILITYIf any part of these Booking Conditions is held to be invalid, unreasonable or unenforceable, such portion(s) shall be deemed as severable from these Booking Conditions and the remainder of these Booking Conditions shall remain in full force and effect and enforceable.

17. EXCURSIONSExcursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book which does not form part of your package holiday with us, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator.

Travel For The Arts 12-15 Hanger Green London W5 3EL UK Telephone: +44 20 8799 8350 Fax: +44 20 8998 7965 E-mail: [email protected] www.travelforthearts.com

TRAVEL FOR THE ARTS

Travel for the Arts is a division of Specialised Travel Ltd