Touring across Wales and the Borders, visiting 12 local venues which are rooted in their community, the Mid Wales Opera 2024 SmallStages tour of Pagliacci saw a 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 them through admin@midwalesopera.co.uk if you’d like to discuss a specific donation.