Couple throw open gates for opera
A local couple have stepped up to host the Iford Arts Festival in their garden. Paul and Caroline Weiland have opened their gates to allow the public to use their grounds as a venue for the festival. Belcombe Court will accommodate a dome to hold 200 audience members – ensuring the muchloved event will live on. The festival has been held at Iford Manor for the past 20 years but now needs to find a new home. Paul, the owner of Belcombe Court, said: “I heard Iford Arts [the festival producer] were looking for a new home and that they were considering approaching us. “For the time being we thought they could come and use Belcombe and it’s a perfect setting for an opera. It’s a very romantic place. It’s all seemed to work out.” For the opera, the festival will have a geodesic dome flown in from Abu Dhabi to make sure the acoustics are perfect. Paul said: “This year, because the dome is bigger than the cloisters, they can fit 220 people in. The cheapest ticket is £25 so its very accessible. “We’ve opened our gardens before for charity regularly since we’ve been here but we’re not open to the public. We do it about once a year. “Last time we opened the garden there were over 2,000 people came and the Red Cross raised over £6,000.” Caroline added: “That was just in an afternoon! “So we know that lots of people do want to come and see it so it’s a really nice thing to do, to have an opera, and I like the idea that some of the tickets are £25.” Paul said: “The house has been here from the 15th century… and to my knowledge there has never been an opera here, maybe a bit of singing in the bathroom!” Iford Arts Festival will take place at Bath Guildhall on May 18 and 19 for Die Fledermaus and then moves to Belcombe Court from August 30 to September 7. For details and ticket information, call Bath Box Office on 01225 463362 or visit ifordarts.org.uk