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.
Current member events:
Behind the Scenes at Eastmoors Stores
Open to Patrons and General Directors' Circle
Tickets: £20
Dates: Tuesday 7 July, Tuesday 14 July, Thursday 5 November, 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).
Online Webinar Series
Open to all Members – Friends, Patrons and General Directors’ Circle
Tickets: Free to attend.
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.
We're looking to expand this popular series to feature new voices and fresh insights from our upcoming 26/27 Season.
Thursday 3 September, 5.30-6.30pm – In Conversation with Our Co-General Directors
Join Sarah Crabtree and Adele Thomas for an exclusive online conversation about the vision behind the 2026/27 season. Discover more about the productions they have chosen, hear about their plans for WNO, and take the opportunity to ask your own questions in a Q&A session.
Wednesday 4 November, 5.30-6.30pm - Inside the Orchestra
Gain a rare glimpse into the life of WNO Orchestra and hear first-hand from some of our world-renowned musicians about the passion, precision and teamwork behind every performance.
Opening night celebrations - WMC, Cardiff
By Invitation only for Gold Sponsors, Platinum Sponsors and the General Director's Circle*
Bluebeard's Castle + Oedipus Rex - Sunday 20 September
La boheme - Sunday 27 September
Members at Gold Patron level and above who have booked tickets to our opening night performances in Cardiff will receive a special 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 great opportunity to get together with fellow fans and members of the WNO team to mark the excitement of the opening night.
*Invitations will be given in proportion to the level of support given to the ongoing work of WNO.
Stage Rehearsals – Wales Millennium Centre
Open to Patrons and above
Tickets: £15*
Experience the thrill of opera in the making. These exclusive stage rehearsals offer Members 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.
La bohème – Wednesday 23 September, 3-6pm
*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
Your WNO. Your Legacy.
Discover the impact of leaving a gift in your Will
Friday 2 October 2026, 2.30pm-4.30pm, CARDIFF
Free to attend
Join us for a special afternoon exploring how a gift in your Will can help shape the future of Welsh National Opera.
Enjoy a performance from some members of the WNO Chorus, hear insights into life behind the scenes, and discover how legacy gifts help support WNO's artistic ambitions, nurture future talent, and bring opera to communities across Wales and beyond.
You'll also have the opportunity to learn more about leaving a gift in your Will, including information about Free Wills Month in October and the lasting impact legacy gifts can have for future generations.
Save the date - further details and booking information will be available soon.
Meet the Archivists and Librarian
Open to Patrons and above
Tickets: £15.00
Join WNO’s volunteer archivists 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.
Tuesday 13 October, 10am to 12.30pm
Thursday 3 December, 10am to 12.30pm
Due to room capacity, places are limited, offering an intimate and personal experience.
For any access requirements or if you have any questions please contact us via development@wno.org.uk or on 029 2063 5000.
