Wellington Opera 2026 Season: Manon, Figaro & Heathers Live in Wellington

Wellington Opera 2026 Season: Manon, The Marriage of Figaro and Heathers the Musical in Wellington

The 2026 season marks an extraordinary chapter for Wellington Opera as the company returns to two of the capital’s most beloved stages with a diverse and emotionally charged programme. From the heartbreaking tragedy of Massenet’s Manon to the sparkling comedy of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and the razor-sharp contemporary bite of Heathers the Musical, Wellington Opera is delivering world-class opera and musical theatre directly to local audiences between March and August 2026.

This carefully curated season showcases Wellington Opera’s commitment to blending timeless classics with bold modern works, all performed by outstanding New Zealand and international singers. Whether you are a lifelong opera lover or discovering the power of live vocal performance for the first time, the 2026 Wellington season promises unforgettable nights at the theatre.

Wellington Opera Live in Wellington – Full 2026 Tour Overview

• Wellington – 5 March 2026 at The Opera House Wellington
• Wellington – 18 March 2026 at The Opera House Wellington
• Wellington – 28–31 May & 2–6 June 2026 (multiple performances) at The Opera House Wellington
• Wellington – 17, 19 & 21 June 2026 at St James Theatre Wellington
• Wellington – 1, 4 & 7 August 2026 at St James Theatre Wellington

Why Wellington is the Heart of the 2026 Season

As New Zealand’s cultural capital, Wellington offers the perfect home for Wellington Opera’s most ambitious season in years. The city’s passionate arts audience, compact theatre district, and stunning waterfront setting create an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere for grand opera and cutting-edge musical theatre. Both The Opera House on Manners Street and the newly restored St James Theatre on Courtenay Place rank among the country’s finest performing arts venues, delivering exceptional acoustics and sightlines. Secure your seat early – check the full ticket information below.

2026 Season Highlights: What Wellington Opera is Bringing to the Stage

Manon – Jules Massenet (1, 4 & 7 August 2026)

Massenet’s lush, romantic masterpiece tells the tragic story of a young woman torn between love and luxury. Wellington Opera’s new production features sumptuous period costumes, breathtaking sets, and a cast led by rising New Zealand soprano Emma Pearson in the title role. Performed at the elegant St James Theatre, these three performances represent the pinnacle of grand opera in 2026.

The Marriage of Figaro – W.A. Mozart (17, 19 & 21 June 2026)

Mozart’s dazzling comedy of love, disguise, and forgiveness remains one of the most beloved operas ever written. Wellington Opera’s fresh, fast-paced production emphasises the work’s revolutionary spirit while highlighting the extraordinary ensemble singing that has become a company hallmark. The matinee on 21 June offers the perfect introduction for first-time opera-goers.

Heathers the Musical (28 May – 6 June 2026)

Based on the iconic 1980s cult film, this dark comedy explodes onto The Opera House stage with unforgettable songs and razor-sharp dialogue. Wellington Opera’s bold decision to include a contemporary musical alongside classic opera demonstrates the company’s commitment to artistic range and attracting younger audiences. Expect sold-out houses and standing ovations.

About Wellington Opera – A Proud New Zealand Institution

Wellington Opera has been enriching New Zealand’s cultural landscape for decades, consistently delivering productions that rival anything seen on the international stage. Known for discovering and nurturing local talent while attracting world-class guest artists, the company enjoys a reputation for innovative staging, outstanding choral work, and emotional depth.

Recent triumphs include critically acclaimed productions of La bohème, Carmen, and the New Zealand premiere of The Turn of the Screw. The 2026 season continues this tradition of excellence. Learn more about the company’s history and achievements on their Wikipedia page or visit the official Wellington Opera artist page.

Full Wellington Opera 2026 Schedule and Ticket Table

Below is the complete list of performances in Wellington. All events are expected to sell quickly, especially the Saturday evening and matinee shows.

Ready to secure the best seats in the house? Don’t miss your chance to experience Wellington Opera live in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wellington Opera 2026 in Wellington

• When is Wellington Opera performing Manon in Wellington?
  Wellington Opera presents Massenet’s Manon on 1, 4 and 7 August 2026 at St James Theatre Wellington.
• How can I buy tickets for Wellington Opera’s The Marriage of Figaro?
  Tickets for all Wellington Opera performances of The Marriage of Figaro (17, 19 & 21 June 2026) are available now through the ticket table above or directly via the Buy Tickets buttons.
• Where in Wellington is Wellington Opera performing Heathers the Musical?
  Wellington Opera’s production of Heathers the Musical runs from 28 May to 6 June 2026 exclusively at The Opera House Wellington, 111/113 Manners Street.
• Are there matinee performances for Wellington Opera in 2026?
  Yes. Wellington Opera offers matinee performances of The Marriage of Figaro on 21 June at 2:30 pm and several Heathers the Musical matinees throughout the run.
• Is Wellington Opera suitable for first-time opera goers?
  Absolutely. Wellington Opera’s 2026 season includes the accessible comedy of The Marriage of Figaro and the contemporary energy of Heathers the Musical – both perfect entry points for newcomers.

Don’t Miss Wellington Opera’s Most Exciting Season Yet

From the romantic tragedy of Manon to the subversive humour of Heathers, Wellington Opera’s 2026 season offers something for every theatre lover. With limited performances across two iconic Wellington venues, tickets will disappear fast. Book today and be part of New Zealand’s premier opera and musical theatre experience.

View the complete tour schedule and secure your seats now before they’re gone.