Letters: City’s opera ‘void’ in Oxford criticized

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

John Warner, principal conductor at Musiktheater im Revier, defended Oxford Opera's longstanding role in Oxford's cultural scene in response to claims of an operatic "void" expressed by Bryn Terfel and Oxford International Opera's promotional materials. He highlighted Oxford Opera's professional productions and community outreach efforts, warning that overlooking their contributions could undermine the development of a sustainable local opera audience.

In response to recent commentary highlighting a perceived gap in Oxford’s operatic offerings, John Warner, principal conductor of Musiktheater im Revier in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, has emphasized the longstanding presence and contributions of Oxford Opera in the city’s cultural landscape. Warner addressed remarks made by Bryn Terfel and promotional material from Oxford International Opera, which described the city as having an operatic “void” and promised a new level of inspiration “in a way previously unseen in Oxford.”

Warner argued that Oxford Opera, founded by Stuart Pendred, has been actively engaged in delivering professional opera productions at the Oxford Playhouse for several years. According to Warner, the company’s efforts extend beyond performances to extensive educational initiatives, including workshops, youth choruses, and family-focused productions that aim to cultivate a broad and enduring interest in opera throughout Oxfordshire. Warner also noted his personal involvement with Oxford Opera as music director for four years, underscoring his familiarity with the company and its work.

He expressed disappointment that Oxford Opera was omitted from the publicity surrounding the new Oxford International Opera, cautioning that this absence from promotional materials should not be interpreted as a lack of operatic activity or community engagement in the city. Warner stressed that building a sustainable audience requires long-term commitment and consistent local involvement, elements he believes Oxford Opera has been providing.

The comments contribute to an ongoing conversation about the development and recognition of opera in Oxford, highlighting differing perspectives on how new initiatives relate to existing organizations and the importance of acknowledging established contributions while fostering growth in the arts sector.

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