The extraordinary story behind the creation of one of the world’s most celebrated opera companies, told through stunning photographic essays, interviews and rarely seen archive photographs.

The lavishly illustrated publication marks WNO’s 60th anniversary. So, how did it all start? On April 15, 1946, Welsh National Opera held its first rehearsal in a car showroom in Cardiff. The pioneers of WNO were coalminers, nurses and shopkeepers, all dedicated to bringing opera to Wales. Their unique story is told in the book. The story comes right up to date with the inclusion in the book of a production photograph of Bryn in WNO’s The Flying Dutchman, being premiered in its Spring Season in 2006.

Welsh National Opera includes:

• Photographs from performances
• Contributions from Richard Fawkes and Simon Rees
• Photographic essays from Kiran Ridley and Neil Bennett
• Over 100 photographs