About this Event
Benjamin Britten’s Noye’s Fludde is a joyful and imaginative community opera telling the story of Noah and the Flood. Written especially for performance in churches and large communal spaces, it brings together professional musicians, young performers, and audiences in a shared celebration of music and storytelling.
This Swansea Minster production features professional soloists and orchestra, alongside children from multiple schools across Swansea, who appear as the animals boarding the ark. Young performers are at the heart of the opera, singing, moving, and helping to shape the drama, while being supported by trained musicians and creative practitioners.
Britten composed Noye’s Fludde in 1958 with participation firmly in mind. The music is vivid, accessible, and playful, with memorable melodies, rhythmic choruses, and moments of audience involvement. Hymns are sung by performers and audience together, making the experience welcoming and inclusive for all.
The story follows Noah as he is called to build an ark to survive a great flood. Animals arrive two by two, family tensions bubble to the surface, the storm breaks, and finally calm returns. A dove brings the sign of land, and the opera concludes with a joyful hymn of thanksgiving and hope. Along the way there is humour, drama, excitement, and moments of quiet reflection.
Audiences can expect a lively, colourful performance that fills the Minster with sound and movement. The building itself becomes part of the storytelling, with music echoing through the space and performers surrounding the audience. The involvement of children brings freshness and energy, while the professional orchestra adds richness and scale to the sound.
This production is led by Hope Pugh, Director of Musical Engagement at Swansea Minster, whose work focuses on creating high‑quality musical opportunities for the whole community. By bringing schools, families, and professional musicians together, Noye’s Fludde offers children an unforgettable performance experience and audiences a unique evening of music‑making.
Noye’s Fludde is family friendly and suitable for all ages. It is ideal for children, parents, grandparents, school communities, and anyone looking to experience opera in an open, joyful, and welcoming way. Whether you are a regular concertgoer or completely new to opera, this performance promises a memorable and uplifting evening at Swansea Minster.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Swansea Minster, 11A Saint Mary's Square, Swansea, United Kingdom
GBP 3.96
