80 Years in the Life – A photography exhibition by Jon Pountney

David Lloyd

The WNO 80th anniversary exhibition at Wales Millennium Centre ( installed in the upper foyer on the right of the entrance area.) is hugely enlightening.

It shows a company at work with many behind the scenes glimpses showing the work and dedication of the team, whether that be the orchestra, the chorus, individual soloist or all the craft skills that go into making the productions we see on stage.

Photographer Jon Pountney was granted extraordinary access during the first year of leadership under co- General Directors and CEOs: Adele Thomas and Sarah Crabtree.

Without prior experience of opera, Jon approached the art form with fresh eyes, attracted by the idea of photographing and translating performance – essentially movement – into a still art form.

Within the Company, Jon encountered a community defined by openness and passion. He said “Everyone has been incredibly friendly and welcoming! I learned that the WNO Chorus had nicknamed me ‘Lord Snowdon’! Being at the side of the stage during performances is absolutely thrilling, and unlike any other photographic experience I’ve had. It’s incredible that Wales has this asset”.

“As Welsh National Opera marks 80 years, this exhibition celebrates more than a milestone. It invites us to look closer at the people, the process, and the power of opera to move, surprise and belong to everyone.

“I’ve known Adele for over 25 years, and when I heard that she and Sarah had become the WNO directors I said “let me document your first year in charge”, and I was very surprised when they agreed!

“I had no knowledge of opera, but was very attracted by the idea of photographing and translating performance, essentially movement, into a still art form. I experimented with long exposures, multiple exposures and defracting lenses to create the impression of movement.

“Everyone is incredibly friendly and welcoming- I learned that the chorus had nicknamed me Lord Snowdon (famous 1960s photographer)!

“Being at the side of the stage during performances is absolutely thrilling, and unlike any other photographic experience I’ve had. It’s incredible that Wales has this asset, one that had lasted for 80 years, and I’d really push people to give it a try. Opera is for everyone!”

Please do take time to visit Jon’s work on your visit to WMC. Opera lover or not, you will be surprised and delighted by what you see of a company that is at the beating heart of Wales.

The exhibition runs until Sunday 26 April 2026 – 9am – 5pm and during performances. The exhibition is free.