Wednesday, 21 October

(Sunday, 18 October, 2015) The 64th Wexford Festival Opera commences on Wednesday evening, 21st October with the civic opening ceremony and the spectacular fireworks display that has become almost as popular as the operas themselves.

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Brendan Howlin TD, will officially open the Festival, alongside the Mayor of Wexford, Cllr. Ger Carty, and Festival Chairman, Ger Lawlor, on Wexford’s quayside prior to the fireworks display to an estimated 20,000 spectators.

Those attending the opening ceremony are advised to come early as traffic restrictions will be in place from 6pm to 9pm. Extra parking and stewards will also be on hand to assist.

There will be designated accessible parking spaces provided at the junction of Crescent Quay and Custom House Quay. An accessible viewing area for Blue Badge holders and their assistants will be provided close by Blue Badge holders need to be in the parking space before 6pm as the quay will be closed to traffic after that time.  A first aid centre will be located on the quay near end of the Bridge and the ‘lost child’ area will be at the back of the stage.

Those viewing the fireworks from Ferrybank are advised that there are a limited number of parking spaces available on the green area, but please note, access to Ferrybank quay will not be available as this is still a working Quay.

The organising committee would also like to remind people to park in designated carparks and not to obstruct traffic, as cars parked indiscriminately may be towed away and may result in a fine being imposed.

This is one of the community’s favourite events of the Festival, especially for children and families. The 64th Wexford Festival Opera runs from Wednesday, 21 October to Sunday, 1 November and features 54 events including, Koanga by Frederick Delius, Guglielmo Ratcliff by Pietro Mascagni and Le Pré aux clercs by Ferdinand Hérold. In addition to the three mainstage operas, this year’s programme also includes three daytime ShortWorks operas, concerts, lunchtime recitals, a gala concert, lectures and talks. www.wexfordopera.com

The 64th Wexford Festival Opera is supported by grants from Wexford County Council, the Arts Council, and Fáilte Ireland.