20 Years of Opera at Jimbour

Attendees seated in the hall while Opera is performed

Opera at Jimbour presented by Queensland Music Trails and Western Downs Regional Council returns to Jimbour House this May, celebrating its 20th year with the largest program to date!

This annual event has become a beloved tradition in the Darling Downs region, attracting visitors from near and far who come to enjoy music and elegance in the countryside.

Opera attendees gather at Jimbour House

David Russell, custodian of Jimbour House reflects on the magic of what Opera at Jimbour means to him, and how music is entwined with the history of the homestead: “Welcoming so many opera enthusiasts and performers enables us to showcase not just Jimbour but also the Queensland performing arts, which has been an important part of Jimbour’s historic role.”

David has brought his lifelong love of opera to be experienced by guests: “Absent the participation of the community and music, Jimbour is very much a shadow of all it can be.”

Some of David’s very own favourites include Mozart, Wagner, and Verdi, with his best-loved being Beethoven. He is most looking forward to hearing Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata (Ludwig van Beethoven) in the Hangar Concerts: “Unexpectedly, the Hangar has proven to have superb acoustics, and this should be a real treat.”

This year’s event will feature a star-studded lineup of internationally renowned soloists and chamber musicians from Opera Queensland, Ensemble Q, and a 26-piece orchestra from Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University.

The spectacular program includes gala events on the Eastern Lawn, exquisite chamber music in the Hangar, intimate recitals inside the opulent Drawing Room, and exclusive tours through the halls of historic Jimbour House.

Opera performed outside under a cover

Visitors can indulge in a sumptuous long lunch showcasing the region’s finest produce, prepared by renowned chefs and served in the beautiful gardens of Jimbour House. Sit back, relax, and indulge in a feast for the senses while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding countryside, framed by mature palms and manicured gardens.

Click here to view the full menu.

Attendees seated outside

We also encourage guests to book a tour of the house while visiting to discover the rich history and cultural significance of the stunning property. With several tours available throughout the weekend, our expert guides will take you through the reception rooms, ballroom, and dining room, providing insights into the lives of the families who lived here over the past century.

For something extra special, visitors can join the Twilight Tour, which includes an indulgent selection of canapés with matched wines from the Jimbour House selection. These tours have proven very popular and often sell out, so be sure to secure your booking early so you don’t miss out on this rare and exclusive experience!

With a jam-packed program, guests also have the opportunity to camp on the grounds for three nights and set up for the weekend, or they can seek alternative accommodation in surrounding areas.

With a dazzling array of some of Australia’s most elite performers, visitors can expect an unforgettable weekend of music, food, and culture. A fascinating and unique event for young and old, and the success of Opera at Jimbour in previous years has set the tone for this year’s event.

David assures that “In addition to being the biggest lineup yet, this event marks the transition of Opera at Jimbour to annual events, with arrangements in place for holding the next 2 events, with continuity guaranteed. We hope this will be the next step in taking forward one of the great traditions of Australian musical performances.”

We look forward to welcoming you to be a part of this iconic weekend here at Jimbour House and celebrate 20 years of Opera at Jimbour. May this year be the best one yet!

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