For an outstanding production or initiative, presented to a live or digital audience, or for the overall accomplishments of a company or individual in opera and music theatre in the UK.

Death in Venice – Welsh National Opera

'In the face of stark funding cuts, Welsh National Opera came out firing all creative cylinders with Death in Venice. Olivia Fuchs’ ingenious production of Britten’s opera combined an A-list cast with thrilling local circus company No Fit State. It was a must-see show, at home in Cardiff, and on tour from Llandudno to Southampton to here in Birmingham. Audiences cheered the bravery, resilience and artistry of WNO.'

Also shortlisted:

• Curlew River – Aldeburgh Festival
• New Year – Birmingham Opera Company

The 2025 shortlist for the RPS Opera and Music Theatre Award was decided by an independent panel drawn from across the music profession comprising:

Hattie Butterworth – Editor, Opera Now
Jonathan Lyness – Music Director, Mid Wales Opera 
Richard Bratby – Chief Music Critic, The Spectator
Toria Banks – Artistic Director and Producer, We Are Hera

A fifth panellist was obliged to withdraw at short notice.