AN opera project has been hailed a "resounding success" after performances sold out.
Mid Wales Opera (MWO) celebrated the achievement with its OpenStages 2026 programme, which culminated in sold-out shows earlier this month.
Audiences filled the seats for two fully staged performances of Dido and Aeneas at Brecon Cathedral and a musical soirée at Hay Castle, leading to two additional releases of tickets and a waiting list at Theatr Brycheiniog.
The heart of the programme was a week of music-making in Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, bringing together professional artists, students, and amateur musicians.
Richard Studer, MWO's artistic director, said: "What I love about MWO’s OpenStages projects, like this production of Dido and Aeneas, is that it’s an opportunity for early career singers, amateurs and professionals to work alongside each other in a supportive environment.
"I think it’s the responsibility of all artists at any level to have a strand of their work dedicated to connecting to new audiences and promoting their art form.
"It doesn’t matter what level of your career you have achieved, or where you are in terms of appreciation, we were all beginners once."
Louise Wood, a Welsh mezzo-soprano, took part in the project.
She said: "I'm very excited to play the role of Sorceress.
"She's such an interesting character, as the audience only sees her for a fraction of the opera, but boy does she make an impact."
The performances reflected MWO’s model of artistic excellence through community collaboration, featuring students, professionals, and amateur musicians working together as an integrated company.
The production, sung in Nahum Tate’s original English libretto, was accompanied by the OpenStages Orchestra under the baton of Jonathan Lyness and led by Elenid Owen.
A community chorus also took centre stage.
Chorus member Lucy Green said: "When I moved to Wales from London I thought I had given up opera singing.
"But my heart leapt on seeing the poster about one of the greatest gems amongst all opera in the English language.
"I couldn't help myself applying."
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OpenStages 2026 highlighted the enduring appeal of opera and the value of making it accessible and rooted in community life.
MWO’s wider programme continues to focus on expanding access to opera, particularly in rural areas, breaking down barriers to participation and supporting emerging talent through collaborative, inclusive projects.
More information about upcoming projects and opportunities to get involved is available at midwalesopera.co.uk.
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