A Year of Opera Delight: Welsh National Opera's Unmissable Events
Step into a world of opulence, drama, and melodic enchantment as the Welsh National Opera unfolds a series of captivating events. From the tragic tale of 'Rigoletto' and the grandeur of 'The Marriage of Figaro' to festive celebrations like 'Bryn's Christmas,' this season promises a rich tapestry of operatic experiences. Expect powerful performances from celebrated artists, unforgettable melodies, and an engaging mix of classic and contemporary works that will leave audiences spellbound. Join us as we explore the highlights of these remarkable upcoming opera events.
Step into the raucous court of the Duke of Mantua where Rigoletto, the court jester, uses vicious wit to conceal his tormented heart. In a world teetering on the edge of debauchery and deceit, his only joy is his daughter, Gilda. When the charming but womanising Duke sets his sights on Gilda, his actions set in motion a tragic chain of events where a father’s love and treachery collide in a crescendo of passion and heartbreak.
Opera, with its catchy melodies and hummable choruses, is the perfect accompaniment to any life event and, in the movies, there are no shortage of moments to enhance.
From Apocalypse Now, embark on a dangerous journey with the infamous Ride of the Valkyries by Wagner (Die Walküre), experience the rise and fall of The House of Gucci with Rossini’s exhilarating and energetic Largo al Factotum (The Barber of Seville), join James Bond on his mission in Quantum of Solace with Puccini’s epically profound Te Deum (Tosca) and more. Opera has officially transcended the operatic stage and gone mainstream!
Join our annual opera celebration as this year we proudly welcome Maestro Xu Zhong, President of the Shanghai Opera House, to conduct the singers of the David Seligman Opera School and the wonderful WNO Orchestra. The programme will feature familiar operatic favourites and some lesser-known gems.
The world-renowned Welsh National Opera Chorus perform side by side with singers from the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama to present a thrilling evening of operatic singing in the heart of the city, the beautiful Tabernacl chapel in the Hayes hosts a concert that will showcase these massed voices performing opera, musical theatre, sacred repertoire, the Welsh choral tradition and music for Christmas.
Enjoy a festive evening of song and celebration with world-renowned Welsh baritone Sir Bryn Terfel, famous for his rich voice and dynamic performances.
16 - 20 Dec, 2024
Welsh National Opera
Swansea Arena | Arena Abertawe + 3 other locations
Welsh National Opera Orchestra will fill the air with wonderful waltzes, pulsing polkas, and all the classics you’d expect with WNO’s unmissable take on the traditional Viennese New Year concert.
3 - 17 Jan, 2025
Welsh National Opera
NPTC Group of Colleges - Newtown College + 5 other locations
Continuing Welsh National Opera’s long-standing partnership with the programme, the latest influx of singers from their Young Artists’ Programme joins WNO in February 2024 for their annual week-long residency, culminating in a not-to-be missed showcase at the beautiful Donald Gordon Theatre within Wales Millennium Centre, under the accompaniment of WNO Orchestra.
It’s supposed to be the happiest day of Figaro and Susanna’s lives but will their wedding even go ahead? Count Almaviva is determined to seduce Susanna, but will his wife find out? Will Figaro be able to outwit his master, for the honour of his bride? And where does young Cherubino fit into it all? In this captivating tale of love, loyalty and mistaken identities, the quick-witted barber navigates the twists and turns of 18th century social intricacies with charm and humour, and clever schemes which will keep you guessing until the final note.
Brought to life by the acclaimed WNO Orchestra, our wonderful presenter Tom Redmond will introduce you to the Orchestra and its many instruments, our talented performers, and of course, the music you’ll be hearing during the afternoon – some of which are our absolute favourites to perform. The relaxed setting of the show will allow you to fully lose yourself in the music and the drama – we’ll have you clapping, singing, and dancing in the aisles.
Peter Grimes is a tale of isolation and prejudice. Haunted by rumours and suspicion, a fisherman finds himself grappling with inner demons as the local community turns against him. But what really happened to his apprentice? Uncover the mysteries of a coastal village, where the sea whispers secrets and everyone thinks they know your business, as tragedy unfolds against the ominous backdrop of powerful, melodic waves
In a year brimming with operatic splendor, the Welsh National Opera crafts a season that transcends mere performance, offering audiences a journey through the emotional landscapes of human experience. Whether through the gripping drama of 'Rigoletto', the festive cheer of 'Bryn's Christmas', or the timeless intrigue of 'The Marriage of Figaro', this season is a testament to the enduring power of opera to move and inspire. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this cultural tapestry, where each event promises an unforgettable experience.