Behind the scenes look at Welsh National Opera

Mar 4 2010 by Our Correspondent, North Wales Weekly News

A BEHIND the scenes look at the Welsh National Opera is on offer when the company visits Llandudno next week.

On March 13 at Venue Cymru, there will be a free day of activities, workshops, concerts and fun. The event is open to all ages.

As the company prepares to perform the popular opera Carmen there will be the rare opportunity to watch an on-stage rehearsal and get an insight into how singers prepare for a live performance.

There be a chance to join members of orchestra for a percussion workshop, and if playing instruments isn’t your thing you can warm up your vocal chords to learn Carmen choruses with choral leader Mari Pritchard. Those taking part will perform in the theatre foyer at the end of the day.

A technical insights session will lift the lid on some of the skills and tricks of the trade needed to mount large-scale opera onstage.

Crafty Kidz will be bringing out the creative side for children of all ages and sessions will be held in the foyer area throughout the day. There will also be entertainment for younger members of the family with a performance of A Real Princess. Aimed at three to five year olds this is a new take on the classic fairytale The Princess and the Pea.