WNO member events
As a valued WNO Friend or Patron you have access to exclusive behind-the-scenes events.
Enjoy the opportunity to glimpse into rehearsals in progress, meet members of the WNO team, take behind-the-scene tours and more.
Below are the current events available to book, with additional dates to be announced throughout the year - so do keep checking back.
Members at our higher Patron levels enjoy enhanced opportunities to engage more closely with WNO. From invitations to exclusive stage rehearsals, access to artists and opening-night celebrations, to special syndicate events offering behind-the-scenes insight into new productions, these experiences provide a unique connection to the creative heart of the Company.
Due to limited availability members are eligible for a maximum of two tickets unless otherwise stated on the event listing. Rehearsal access is at the discretion of the creative team and can be altered.
To book events or learn more about joining our Patrons, Syndicates, or General Director’s Circle and the experiences available at each level, please contact the Development Team on 02920 63 5000 or development@wno.org.uk.
Online Webinar Series
Open to all Members – Friends, Patrons and General Directors’ Circle Tickets: Free to attend, please book more than two weeks in advance.
Time: 5.30-7pm.
Go behind the curtain and discover the world of WNO through our new webinar series. These exclusive online events offer fascinating insights into different areas of our work - from the artistry on stage to the creativity and collaboration that bring our productions to life.
Wednesday 14 January – Inside the Chorus
Gain a rare glimpse into the life of a WNO chorister and hear first-hand from some of our world-renowned Chorus about the passion, precision and teamwork behind every performance.
Thursday 14 May – Opera for Everyone
Explore the work of our Programmes & Engagement team and discover how WNO uses opera to inspire creativity, confidence and connection within communities across Wales and beyond.
We're looking to expand this popular series to feature new voices and fresh insights from our upcoming 26/27 Season.
Coffee and Conversations - Wales Millennium Centre.
Time: 11am to 1pm
Enjoy coffee and conversation while discovering the people and stories behind WNO. These relaxed mornings offer Members a unique opportunity to meet the artists and teams who bring our productions to life.
Friday 30 January – A Musician’s Life on Tour
Open to Patrons and above
Tickets: Free
Hear exclusively from members of WNO orchestra, for a special insight into life on tour with an internationally acclaimed orchestra.
Friday 13 March - On the Road with WNO
Open to all Members.
Tickets: £15.00 for Friends, free for Patrons and above.
Meet Cherry Bernstein, Company Manager and Dan Saddington, Head of Stage as they share how WNO prepares to take Blaze of Glory!, The Flying Dutchman and Play Opera! on tour.
Meet the Archivists and Librarian
Open to Patrons and above
Tickets: £15.00. Time: 10am to 12.30pm
Dates: Tuesday 10 February. Tuesday 5 May.
Join WNO’s volunteer archivists John Richardson and Ian Douglas, together with Senior Music Librarian Georgina Govier, for a fascinating morning exploring the treasures of WNO’s archive and music library. Enjoy a relaxed and informal setting as you discover the stories, artefacts, and history that chart WNO’s journey, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and share your own memories.
Due to room capacity places are limited, offering an intimate and personal experience.
Stage Rehearsals – Wales Millennium Centre
Open to Patrons and above Tickets: £15
Blaze of Glory! - Wednesday 25 March, 2026 6.30-9.30pm
The Flying Dutchman - Friday 10 April, 2026. 3-6pm.
Location - Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff.
Experience the thrill of opera in the making. These exclusive stage rehearsals offer Patrons the rare opportunity to watch our orchestra, conductor and director at work as they bring a production to life. You’ll gain a fascinating insight into the precision, artistry and collaboration that shape each performance.
*Platinum Patrons and above receive complimentary invitations to rehearsals. Please contact the Development Team directly for further information on 02920 63 5000 development@wno.org.uk
Open Dress Rehearsals
Open to all Members – Friends*, Patrons and General Directors' Circle Cost: Free*
Blaze of Glory! - Friday 27 March, 12pm.
The Flying Dutchman - 13 April, 3pm.
Location - Wales Millennium Centre
Experience the final stages of bringing our productions to life with exclusive access to these open dress rehearsals. A rare opportunity to see the Company in full preparation before opening night.
*Available only where tickets have been purchased for a performance by a named Friend member, no separate ticket purchase required by Patrons and above. Booking reference will be requested. Two passes available per membership.
Opening Night Celebrations
For Gold Patrons and above*
Dates:
Blaze of Glory! - Wednesday 1 April.
The Flying Dutchman - Thursday 16 April.
Location: Wales Millennium Centre.
Members at Gold Patron level and above who have booked tickets to our Cardiff opening night performances will receive an exclusive invitation to join the Development Team and guests for pre-show drinks to celebrate the start of each new production.
These special occasions offer a wonderful opportunity to come together with fellow supporters and members of the WNO team to mark the excitement of opening night.
*Invitations are issued commensurate with level of giving in support of WNO’s ongoing work.
Patrons' insight
Dates to be announced
We are developing a special Patron's Insight event for later in the spring, offering an early inside look at our upcoming productions. This exclusive opportunity will give Patrons the chance to hear directly from our General Directors regarding their first, programmed season.
Please keep an eye on our January newsletter and website updates for further details. We'll also share a dedicated communication once everything is confirmed, so you can secure your place.
Behind the Scenes at Eastmoors Stores
Open to Patrons and General Directors' Circle
Tickets: £20
Dates: Thursday 18 June, Tuesday 7 July, Tuesday 14 July.
Time: 11am to 1pm.
Step behind the scenes and explore where the magic of WNO productions is made. Join Judith Russell, WNO’s Head of Touring Wardrobe, for a guided tour of our Eastmoors stores in Cardiff, where you’ll see an extraordinary collection of sets, props and costumes up close.
These small-group tours offer a rare opportunity to discover the artistry, detail and craftsmanship behind WNO’s productions, with plenty to see and stories to enjoy along the way.
Please note: tours include transportation to and from Wales Millennium Centre and involve stair access only (no lift available).
For any access requirements or if you have any questions please contact us via development@wno.org.uk or on 029 2063 5000.