In the Summer issue of Opera Now, we put a special focus on the next generation of opera singers. Making her name as a terrific Tosca on stages around the world, Welsh-Ukranian soprano Natalya Romaniw is an undoubtable force. Our cover feature speaks to her ahead of her Sieglinde role debut in Barrie Kosky’s new Die Walküre for the Royal Opera.

Elsewhere, we meet two rising stars, conductor Charlotte Courderoy and composer Toby Hession, and look at the RPS Award-winning homelessness initiative Streetwise Opera who are this issue's Small Company Focus. We go behind the scenes, speaking to Olivier Award-winning designer Vicki Pitchers and highlight singer and online sensation, Babatunde Akinboboye.

We take a look at the ongoing impact of the University of Cape Town’s Opera school and its illustrious list of alumni, and speak to baritone Brindley Sherratt about his fundraising gala at The Grange for the Meath Epilepsy Charity, where his daughter has received life-altering treatment.

As Fauré’s only opera Pénélope is heard at the Bayerische Staatsoper for the first time in July, we preview the new production directed by Andrea Breth and explore the history behind the French composer's dramatic work.

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