Heritage Opera began in 2006 with a simple idea: bring beautiful, intimate opera experiences to stunning historic venues across the UK. Founded by conductor Chris Gill, we started with chamber operas performed in stately homes, often in places where live opera was rarely seen.
Over the years, we’ve grown with ambition. We’ve commissioned brand new operas like Mansfield Park and The Arsonists, and taken our productions to theatres and festivals across England, Scotland and Wales. From cosy drawing rooms to grand historic houses like Chatsworth and Hatfield, we make opera feel close, alive, and unforgettable.
Our repertoire spans everything from Mozart and Puccini to Gilbert & Sullivan—and even a UK première or two. Whether it’s your first opera or your hundredth, we’re here to make it special.
Eleanor Strutt, Artistic Director, is an inspiring force in the world of opera who embodies the spirit, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive at the heart of Heritage Opera. She first stepped onto the operatic stage with Heritage Opera as Barbarina in The Marriage of Figaro, where her curiosity saw her not just perform, but immerse herself in every aspect of production—from props to rehearsal technique—during an 11-show national tour.
Since then, Eleanor has developed a rare multifaceted artistry as a stage director, choreographer, and performer, bringing a deep understanding of the interplay between text, music, and movement to every production. Her work spans creative collaborations, innovative staging, and nurturing emerging singers with technical rigour and expressive confidence.
With a master’s degree earned with distinction and a passion for empowering artists to embody their characters fully, Eleanor is redefining what it means to lead opera into the future—honouring tradition while inviting fresh, bold interpretations.
William Branston, Company Manager, is a dynamic and versatile opera professional whose leadership is instrumental to Heritage Opera’s creative and organisational success. Born and raised in rural West Wales, William trained as a tenor, earning a master’s degree in Vocal Studies from Trinity Laban, and has sung a wide range of repertoire in both classical and contemporary productions across Europe.
Beyond his work on stage, William brings a deep understanding of artistic process, audience engagement, and operational excellence to every project he manages. Based in Belgium with a portfolio career spanning performance, marketing, and arts administration, he combines artistic sensibility with clear strategic thinking to support artists and enhance audience experiences.
William’s commitment to collaborative creativity and thoughtful production ensures that every Heritage Opera performance is not only beautifully realised but also organised with precision, passion, and integrity—uplifting artists and audiences alike.
On 5th January 2019, Nicholas suffered a brain aneurysm from which he is still recovering. He has now moved out of hospital into home-based care in Cheshire as he continues to recover. We at Heritage Opera wish our dearest friend and colleague a full recovery.
