Professional opera, comedy, folk music and family entertainment come together in the spectacular Quarry Amphitheatre at Sunningwell.
One of Oxfordshire’s most distinctive summer festivals returns from 23–26 July 2026, bringing four days of outstanding live entertainment to the beautiful Quarry Amphitheatre in Sunningwell while once again raising vital funds for the Oxfordshire children’s bereavement charity SeeSaw.
Presented by Opera Anywhere, Sunningwell Festival has grown into one of the county’s most unusual and welcoming cultural events. Set within a natural quarry beneath a giant covered tipi, the festival combines world-class professional performance with the relaxed atmosphere of an English summer gathering, attracting audiences from across Oxfordshire and beyond.
Following the success of last year’s festival, which raised £1,000 for SeeSaw, organisers hope that this year’s expanded programme will generate even greater support for the charity’s life-changing work with bereaved children, young people and families throughout Oxfordshire.
Founded by Mike and Vanessa Woodward, the festival has its roots in the couple’s original Proms on the Pond, first staged twenty-six years ago. Since then it has evolved into a celebration of music, theatre and community, while remaining true to its original aim of bringing exceptional live performance to local audiences in an informal and welcoming outdoor setting.
Festival founder Mike Woodward said: “When Vanessa and I organised our very first Proms on the Pond twenty-six years ago, we never imagined it would grow into the festival it has become today. What makes it so special is that people can enjoy performances of the highest quality in one of Oxfordshire’s most beautiful outdoor settings while also helping to support a wonderful local charity. We genuinely believe there’s something for everyone this year, whether you’re discovering opera for the first time, enjoying live folk music, looking for a great comedy night or bringing the family along for an afternoon of adventure.”
Liv Webster, Communications Manager at SeeSaw, added: “We’re so grateful to be a part of the fabulous Sunningwell Festival once again. This event brings the community together to help raise funds and awareness for bereaved children and young people in such a unique and meaningful way.”
This year’s festival offers an outstanding programme of professional entertainment:
• Thursday 23 July – Award-winning comedian Amy Webber opens the festival with an evening of comedy and live music.
• Friday 24 July – Acclaimed singer-songwriter Reg Meuross presents Fire & Dust: A Woody Guthrie Story, joined by The Strike Duo and special guest Phil Beer.
• Saturday 25 July – Opera Anywhere presents Mozart’s magical masterpiece The Magic Flute.
• Sunday 26 July (afternoon) – Enchanted Performers Theatre Company delights younger audiences with Pirates Hidden Treasures, an interactive family adventure.
• Sunday 26 July (evening) – The festival concludes with Opera Anywhere’s acclaimed production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s much-loved comic opera The Pirates of Penzance.
Festival-goers can also enjoy delicious food from local producers Church Farm, a fully licensed bar and free parking, making Sunningwell Festival an ideal summer day or evening out with family and friends.
By attending Sunningwell Festival, audiences will not only experience exceptional live entertainment in one of Oxfordshire’s most remarkable outdoor venues but will also help support SeeSaw’s invaluable work, ensuring that bereaved children and young people across the county receive the specialist support they need.
Early booking is recommended.
Tickets and further information are available at:
www.OperaAnywhere.com and www.Sunningwell.com
