On Saturday 13 March, Welsh National Opera (WNO) is opening the doors of Venue Cymru for a free day of activities, workshops, concerts and fun as the popular Open House event moves to North Wales to round off WNO’sLlandudno. week-long 2010 Spring season in
Open House is a chance to find out what goes on behind the scenes of an opera company and is suitable for people of all ages. No matter if you are new to opera or a regular member of the audience there will be something for you to take part in. All the events are free so whether you want to get involved in a performance, have a makeover, or simply sit back and enjoy performances throughout the day there’s something for everyone.
As the Company prepares to perform the ever-popular Carmen there will be the rare opportunity to watch an on-stage rehearsal and get an unmissable insight into how WNO prepares for a live performance.
Join members of WNO’s orchestra for a Percussion Workshop – a chance to work with professional musicians to learn how to play various percussion instruments. No experience is necessary – just come along, make some noise and have some fun!
If playing instruments isn’t your thing you can warm up your vocal chords to learn Carmen Choruses with choral leader Mari Pritchard. Mari will share secrets and tips on how to sing the perfect ensemble. You don’t need any experience and those taking part will perform in the theatre foyer at the end of the day.
From wigs and make-up to costumes and sets WNO’s technical team are the ones that make the theatrical magic work. Technical Insights will lift the lid on some of the skills and tricks of the trade needed to mount large-scale opera onstage.
Crafty Kidz will be bringing out the creative side for children of all ages – these will be held in the foyer area throughout the day. There will also be entertainment for younger members of the family with a performance of A Real Princess. Aimed at 3 – 5 year olds this is a new take on the classic fairytale The Princess and the Pea.
If you just want to sit back and simply enjoy music there will be the chance to hear members of WNO’s world-class orchestra performing in the box office. Remember to keep your eyes and ears peeled – impromptu performances of some of Carmen’s most famous arias and duets will be played out in the most unexpected places when you least expect it throughout the day.
To find out more about Open House visit www.wno.org.uk/openhouse or call 01492 872000 to book a place on ticketed events.
Open House takes place whilst the Company is based in Llandudno for the spring season. This includes performances of The Abduction from the Seraglio, Tosca and Carmen. Tickets are still available from Venue Cymru ticket office 01492 872000.
