Mike Smith

4 days ago | operascene.co.uk | Mike Smith

There is only one real test of a successful performance of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly. That is whether you leave with a tear in your eye as no matter how much a director may wish to play with you intellectually, this is a work that must succeed emotionally. Yes, for some it is a difficult opera to accept with contemporary causes célèbres, and all manner of theatrical jiggery-pokery is employed to sate certain hashtags. However, the opera speaks (or sings) for itself. Imperialism? Bad. Abuse of women.

6 days ago | asiw.co.uk | Mike Smith

An exclusive first look at rehearsals for the hugely anticipated Nye, starring Michael Sheen, has been been released by The National Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre. Following sell-out shows and rave reviews, Nye returns to Wales Millennium Centre’s Donald Gordon Theatre this summer. Featuring Welsh legend Michael Sheen, Nye tells the story of Aneurin “Nye” Bevan, who helped to transform the lives of millions by founding the NHS.

1 week ago | asiw.co.uk | Mike Smith

Final casting has been announced for the UK & Ireland tour of the critically acclaimed production of Fiddler on the Roof which is at the New Theatre, Cardiff between November 18 and 22. This celebrated revival, featuring a cast of exceptional performers, has captivated audiences and critics alike during its West End run.

1 week ago | asiw.co.uk | Mike Smith

Tickets are now on sale for Cowbridge Music Festival. The festival runs from September 12 to 21 presenting an eclectic and vibrant line-up across ten days this September, blending chamber music tradition with innovation, Welsh cultural heritage, and global musical influences. This year’s programme showcases a wealth of Welsh talent, from Sinfonia Cymru’s Seascapes and a new festival commission by John Metcalf to appearances by Dafydd Jones, Kat Rees, and folk trio Vrï.

1 week ago | operascene.co.uk | Mike Smith

Tickets are now on sale for Cowbridge Music Festival 2025, a celebration of Welsh talent, global voices, and new commissions. The festival take splaces between September 12 and 21 at venues across the Vale of Glamorgan town. The organisers promise this year will present an eclectic and vibrant line-up across ten days this September, blending chamber music tradition with innovation, Welsh cultural heritage, and global musical influences.