By Dan Walsh at Wexford Quay
The 75th Wexford Festival Opera opened last night (Thursday) before a packed Wexford Quay, as the traditional fireworks display lit up the sky over the harbour to launch an internationally renowned musical celebration featuring 75 events over the next 17 days.
This year’s festival is special “and promises an unforgettable celebration of 75 years of extraordinary.” So runs the festival motto!
Sparking from the stage the Mayor of Wexford Cllr Vicky Barron said; “The festival belongs to the people of Wexford, and generations of Wexford people wherever they are. 75 years of extraordinary achievement. Happy 75th Wexford Festival Opera.”
Master of ceremonies, the inimitable Maurice McCarthy, introduced special guest Anna Murphy, co-winner of Traitors 2026, who was honoured to officially launch the 75th Wexford Festival Opera.
Chair of Wexford Festival Opera, Paul Cleary, addressed the crowds and mainly paid tribute to the background volunteers and performers who make the festival what it is. There was a special recognition for the boys and girls of Scoil Mhuire Loch Garman who performed on stage.
There was an amazing onstage performance from the Ivy Sisters featuring Sharon Clancy, Jilly Cox and Aileen Donohoe and Rachel Grace also performed.
On a still night, the fireworks were visible for miles, set to classic tunes that lifted the spirits of the crowd, made up mostly of young families!
