Marty and the fireworks on opening night!
THE 68th Wexford Festival Opera will be officially opened on Tuesday next, October 22 by the radio and television presenter Marty Whelan in a quayfront ceremony featuring a spectacular fireworks display.
The free public event which is expected to be attended by several thousand people, will also be addressed by the Mayor of Wexford, Cllr. George Lawlor and the chairwoman of Wexford Festival, Mary Kelly.
The fun will kick off at 7.15 p.m. culminating in a fireworks display over Wexford Harbour at approximately 7.40 p.m. before the sold-out opening performance of Don Quichotte by Jules Massenet in the National Opera House at 8 p.m.
Marty Whelan, the presenter of Winning Streak and a commentator on the Eurovision Song Contest every year, has family roots in Wexford and regularly attends the Opera Festival.
He will present his radio programme ‘Marty in the Morning’ from the Skyview Cafe in the National Opera House the following day.
Traffic restrictions will be in place on the opening night with Wexford Bridge and the quays closed to traffic from 5 p.m. with both expected to re-open by 8.30 p.m.
A number of additional disabled parking spaces will be available in Paul Quay car park and gardai will allow access along the quay to anyone needing to use the facilities. All roadworks will be suspended for the evening.
As the opening ceremony attracts large crowds, people are reminded to come into town early and to observe signage and the advice of stewards. Drones are not permitted.