Here's a good starting point, wexoperafan. I'm relying entirely on memory but I seem to recall regular R3 broadcasts from the Wexford Festival, introduced by Sean Rafferty. I also recall Elaine Padmore as its director, mother of the now well-established Mark? As Ruth says, many rarities in their repertoire. What has been programmed recently?
The last 2 festivals have been a bit different than usual, due to the building of the new opera house.
In October 2006 we had a shortened event, with only 2 works. These were Don Gregorio by Donizetti, and Transformations by Conrad Susa.
This year the festival was held in June, and the main stage was a tent on the grounds of a nearby country house. The "operas" were
Der Silbersee by Weill
Pulcinella by Stravinsky in a double bill with Arlecchino by Busoni
Rusalka by Dvorak.
Critics and audiences were very harsh !!
Next year, we move into the new opera house, and the opera's are;
Snegurochka by Rimsky-Korsakov
The Mines Of Sulphur by Richard Rodney Bennett
Tutti In Maschera by Carlo Pedrotti.
Since the arrival of the latest Artistic Director there seems to be a shift towards more modern works, rather than the traditional italian centered seasons.
Regarding the R3 broadcasts you are correct Stanley. R3 used to broadcast very regulary from the festival, but have not done so since 2004. Sean Rafferty was indeed the presenter. Back in the late 70's / early 80's Elaine Padmore was in charge of the opera broadcasts for R3, and in 1982 became the Artistic Director at Wexford, and was in the job until 1994, and then went to Copenhagen. She is still a regular visitor every year.
Welcome Wexoperafan. I've never been to the Wexford Festival but must do so at some point - most of the operas you do there are so obscure even I haven't seen them...
Ruth - we would be delighted to welcome you to Wexford. Yes, the operas are usually obscure, but mostly they are worthwhile. Admittedly there have been a few that should have remained in obscurity, but that is always the risk.
Bws
Wex
