Wexford Festival Opera

A little south of Dublin, along the Irish east coast, you’ll find Wexford – home of the National Opera House and known internationally as the home of Wexford Festival Opera. The festival was founded by an ambitious group of local enthusiasts in 1951 and has since become a cultural crowning-jewel for locals. Year after year, they have dedicated their time and talent to ensure that Wexford Festival Opera has become a leader of both national and international opera, praised by critics the world over. A location like no other, Wexford town is famous for its warm welcome and picturesque setting. During festival time, the streets, pubs and restaurants come alive with an excitement that draws opera lovers back again and again. Since its birth, the festival has stood for a number of things – the highest quality productions, striking a balance between tradition and innovation, as well as being a champion of often-overlooked operatic gems. This trifecta has struck a chord worldwide. Last year alone we saw media publications from ten separate countries, including mentions in all of the key UK broadsheets. The Wall Street Journal referred to us as ‘Ireland’s Cultural Jewel’ and Frommer’s Guide listed us as one of the top 3 Opera destinations in the entire world. These validations, along with our warm welcome, may help explain why over 40% of our patrons come from abroad. We have a history and heritage to be proud of and we are committed to maintaining the values that have underpinned our success so far. But though we look to the past for guidance, we also keep one eye on the future. We invite you to share in our ambition, and discover the hidden gem that is Wexford Festival Opera. The Wexford Festival Trust Registered Office: The National Opera House, High St, Wexford, Y35 FEP3, Ireland. Registered in Ireland No: 73941 VAT Reg. No: IE4571810K Charity No: CHY6132