Join the Wexford Festival Community Opera 2026
To mark the Festival’s 75th year, Wexford Festival Opera has commissioned Irish composer Ailís Ní Ríain to create a new opera especially for the Wexford community: Still, life…
Ailís describes the work as:
“A work about the quiet moments that hold everything. The piece is a meditation on what endures when everything else passes: relationships, emotions, landscapes, and time itself.”
We’re looking for people who would enjoy taking part in movement, acting, or singing. You don’t need any experience at all. If you’re curious, creative, or just want to try something new, we’d love to have you involved.
What is it?
Now in its 4th year, and following sell-out successes over the past 3 years, the Community Opera is an opportunity for non-singing and non-acting members of the wider Wexford community to be part of the Festival in October.
In 2026, the Festival will present a brand-new Community Opera production created with and for people from across Wexford. No prior experience is needed, just enthusiasm and a sense of fun. Across the months, participants will help explore the story, develop characters and dialogue, and bring this new work to life.
Who can take part?
Anyone from the wider Wexford community. Participants are fully supported by vocal coach and project manager Elizabeth Drwal, along with the creative team.
When does it take place?
Workshops:
January–July 2026
Two workshops each month (approximately 4 hours total per month)
Rehearsals:
From mid-September 2026, working with the Wexford Factory Singers and the composer (exact schedule TBC)
Performances:
Five performances at the Grainstore at Stonebridge in October 2026 as part of the 75th Wexford Festival Opera (exact schedule TBC)
Information Session
Come along to learn more and meet members of last year’s company.
Tuesday, 9 December at 7pm in the National Opera House
How to get involved
If you would like to take part or would like more information, please email: edrwal@wexfordopera.com
We look forward to welcoming you.
Elizabeth Drwal
Vocal Coach and Community Projects Manager
Hear from Participants in the 2025 Community Opera
'I wasn't nervous for too long because everyone just makes you feel part of the community, because it's the community'
Join the Community Opera 2026