We are thrilled to announce that our Artistic Director David Pountney won the Culture Award at the St David Awards for 2018. He won in the Culture category for people who have excelled in the arts or have made a strong contribution to culture in Wales.
David joined WNO as Chief Executive and Artistic Director in 2011, but his relationship with the Company began back in 1975 when he directed a ground-breaking Janáček cycle of operas, co-produced between Welsh National Opera and Scottish Opera. His production of Jenůfa in 1975 marked the start of over 40 years of collaboration with WNO. Other productions from this cycle are still in the Company’s repertoire, with From the House of the Dead being revived during the Autumn 2017 Season.
We’re proud that the award recognises David’s unique contribution to artistic life of Wales as both an artist and a cultural leader. His artistic energy drives Welsh National Opera today in its mission to bring the drama and emotion of opera to as wide an audience as possible. Alongside a comprehensive programme of performances, youth and community and digital events, WNO with David Pountney as its Artistic Director forges artistic partnerships with cultural partners not only from across Wales but also around the globe.
David also served as Chairman of the Jury of the internationally-renowned Cardiff Singer of the World competition in 2015 and 2017. More recently (Spring 2018) he directed WNO’s new production of La forza del destino, the first in our Verdi trilogy in collaboration with Theater Bonn, expanding our relationship here in Wales with Germany.
We would like to thank the St David Awards for a wonderful evening celebrating the achievements of remarkable individuals from across the country - congratulations to all the winners and nominees.
For more information about the awards and the other winners please St David's Awards website.
If you would like to support WNO and help make David's dreams come true please Support us.