Scottish Opera has unveiled its 2023/24 season, including a double bill of performances at Barrfields Theatre in Largs.

The new season promises to be a celebratory showcase of the power and beauty of opera, which will come to the Largs seafront venue in July.

Four immersive performances of Henry McPherson’s Maud and Kurt Weill’s Down in the Valley will be performed by Scottish Opera’s Young Company, directed by Flora Emily Thomson.  

Aged 17 to 21, the 11 members of the company rehearse throughout the year with artistic director Chris Gray, to present the thought-provoking double bill which moves between centuries.

The operas are connected by a single Hebridean-inspired set, designed by Finlay McLay.

Maud is a modern retelling of a traditional folk tale and received its premiere in 2018 at Glasgow’s SWG3 as a winner of Scottish Opera’s Opera Sparks competition.

It is performed alongside the magical and menacing folk-inspired opera Down in the Valley, a bittersweet coming-of-age tale showing the light and darkness of one claustrophobic community.  

Scottish Opera Young Company offers young singers a unique and practical introduction to the world of opera and the chance to develop their talent through a year-long programme.

Alex Reedijk, Scottish Opera general director, said: “Following the ambition and achievement of our 60th anniversary season, we are thrilled to present exciting premieres and cherished classics.

“These will be performed across Scotland and continue the company’s reputation for high quality opera, artistic flexibility, and innovation.”