It has always the ambition of the National House to have such a programme, and for a long period of time the Board of the National Opera House, of which Lucy was a member, worked tirelessly to develop a strategy and host several singular arts outreach and education events. However, in April 2021, with the supportive funding from Wexford Leader (Wexford Local Development) and Wexford County Council, the National Opera House embarked on its cohesive programme of arts events for people of all ages, both within the doors of the National Opera House and out into the community of County Wexford. So far, events have included workshops for pre-school children and parents/guardians, Singing for Health for adults and Evening Classes in Arts Appreciation.
Lucy is well known nationally in the arts and education sector. Having graduated from the London College of Music, Lucy has worked with London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ulster Orchestra before going on to become the Education and Community Outreach Manager at the National Concert Hall, which received two Business2Arts Awards in 2003 and 2004 for its innovative community projects.
Lucy is also an active artist, working as a professional singer, vocal coach, choral workshop leader and Alexander Technique teacher. She is also a member of the vocal ensemble ANÚNA of Riverdance fame and is a featured soloist on eleven of their albums.
Speaking about the programme, Lucy said, “For us, education is right across the age spectrum – so from early years up to later years. We therefore aimed at programming events that are interactive, informative and entertaining. However, the restriction of in-person activity meant that nearly all our events so far have been online; but we did not let this deter us! The musicians and audiences have really risen to the occasion and embraced their inner technology. But we are delighted to be able to meet and work with people in-person.”
“We want to give the opportunity to bring as many people of all ages and abilities to participate in the arts and into the stunning venue of the award-winning National Opera House, but are conscious that not everyone can come to us, so we go to them.”
This month, actor and musician Pete McCamley and vocal specialist Elizabeth Drwal are holding workshops for the people of St. Bridget’s Day Care Centre in Wexford town. In addition, a series of Singing for Health workshops are currently taking place in selected primary schools around County Wexford. Adults can enjoy Evening Classes in Arts Appreciation, taking place various libraries in County Wexford - Enniscorthy, Bunclody and Wexford town .
All the Education and Community Programmes are free, but places are limited and must be booked in advance. For more information on the programme, who is involved and how to book your place, visit www.nationaloperahouse.ie or ring the box-office at the National Opera House on 053 912 2400.
The Education and Community Programme is kindly supported through funding by Wexford Local Development and Wexford County Council.
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