"Pagliacci Packs a Punch"

MWO issued a press release after the end of its winter tour.

Mid Wales Opera brought their recent SmallStages production of Pagliacci to a triumphant close, with audiences and critics alike celebrating the company’s commitment to bringing world-class opera to rural communities.

The production was met with critical acclaim, including a glowing four-star review from Rian Evans in The Guardian:"Pagliacci review – Mid Wales Opera send in the clowns for a stylish and emotive evening. Leoncavallo’s short opera has been downscaled for a chamber orchestra and given a simple but effective staging, rounded off with some surprise razzle-dazzle." From Aberdovey to Newtown, audiences were also captivated by the powerful performances.

“Absolutely fabulous! A must-see and a fantastic example of making opera accessible to more people in Wales.” “What a glorious night! The singers, musicians, and actors were amazing— loved every moment.” “Having seen large-scale productions before, I was blown away by the vocal performances and the phenomenal production quality from Mid Wales Opera.”

A year after losing its annual core funding grant from the Arts Council of Wales, Mid Wales Opera remains committed to expanding its reach and impact, ensuring that opera and classical music continues to thrive in the heartlands of rural Wales. Touring across Wales and the Borders, visiting 12 local venues which are rooted in their community, the 2024 SmallStages
tour saw a remarkable 37% increase in average ticket sales per venue compared to the previous year.

After receiving a lifeline in the form of a grant from Powys County Council’s Shared Prosperity Fund alongside overwhelming support from friends, donors, and audiences, the company has actively begun business planning for the next two years, as well as continue working in schools across mid Wales, using the transformative power of music and performance to enrich the lives of children and young people through engaging and interactive experiences.

In November, MWO also received the welcome news that two future SmallStages tours have been given the go ahead thanks to the generous support of the Colwinston Charitable Trust, who have awarded the charity a vital grant to cover the next two years of activity. The Colwinston Charitable Trust, established in 1995, has a long-standing commitment to supporting live performing arts, particularly initiatives benefiting Wales. MWO is deeply grateful for this grant, which will help secure the company’s future and allow it to continue enriching the cultural landscape of Wales.

After facing almost certain closure, this funding, along with donations from audiences and supporters all helps MWO in its aim to secure a short term future.

MWO Chair Gareth Williams said "Thanks to the enormous outpouring of love – and money! – from our friends and supporters, and from opera lovers across the country, Mid Wales Opera is very much alive and kicking. While the loss of two-thirds of our income has altered our plans, we are determined to continue our annual SmallStages productions and education work. We are
incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped us reach this point."

Mid Wales Opera thanks its funders, venues, audiences and supporters for making the Pagliacci tour an extraordinary success. However the challenge is still on to raise at least £25,000 per year to secure the future of Mid Wales Opera, keeping live opera thriving for the communities they serve. Whether it’s £5 or £5000 you can donate online or contact through admthrough admin@midwalesopera.co.uk if you’d like to discuss a specific donation.