The weather’s turning colder, pigs in blankets and mince pies have taken over supermarket shelves and Mariah Carey is playing everywhere you go…
Christmas is just around the corner and, unless you’re one of those super-organised shoppers, you’re probably panicking about when you’ll get to town to pick out the perfect presents or wondering if that ideal gift will arrive in time if you order it online now. Welsh National Opera are here to take the stress out of last-minute Christmas shopping with our gift guide for opera and classical music lovers, and those whose eyes you want to open to our artform.
With two stunning performances in our Spring 2024 Season, why not treat a loved one to a night at the opera? Britten’s magnificently atmospheric Death in Venice tells the story of renowned author Gustav von Aschenbach as he travels to Venice where he obsesses with youth and beauty, becoming increasingly divorced from reality. If the opera fan in your life prefers something a little lighter, then a ticket to Mozart’s comical Così fan tutte is the perfect gift. Played out to some of Mozart’s most ravishing music, four sixth formers learn a lesson about love, life and liberty when they’re involved in a secret, yet amusing, experiment.
If they’ve already got their tickets, why not pre-order them a programme? You may not get it in time to stuff their stockings for Christmas, but it’ll make a lovely surprise in the lead up to the performance.
Not sure which of our two Spring productions your giftee would prefer? Then play it safe with our Opera Favourites concert. Whether an opera enthusiast or curious to give it a go, there’s something for everyone in our unforgettable concert. Enjoy some of the most recognisable pieces from the most beloved operas, including Carmen, The Marriage of Figaro and Rigoletto as we tour to venues across Wales and England in Spring.
A Viennese Celebration is a great way to dust off the post-Christmas blues and see in the New Year in classical style. Throughout January, WNO Orchestra will be taking their New Year’s concert to venues across Wales and England where they will delight audiences with some of the most brilliant examples of Viennese music. Under the direction of Leader and Concertmaster David Adams and joined by WNO’s latest Associate Artists, soprano Emily Christina Loftus and mezzo-soprano Beca Davies, this is a night that no classical music fan would want to miss.
A WNO Friend membership will make a unique Christmas gift for the opera lover in your life. WNO Friends will receive a year’s worth of benefits including priority booking and access to dress rehearsals. They will also receive our regular supporter e-newsletter which delves deeper into the heart of WNO.
Welsh National Opera is a charity, and we rely on kind donations from our patrons to continue thriving. If there is someone in your life who cares about the arts as much as we do, then consider making a donation as a gift on their behalf. We are always profoundly grateful for any support.
We hope we’ve inspired you to give the gift of music this Christmas.