Zurich Insurance to be lead sponsor at Wexford opera festival
Zurich Insurance is to sponsor ‘La cour de Célimène’, the French opera which will officially open the 60th Wexford Festival Opera in October and November.
The 1850’s opéra-comique by Ambroise Thomas will run for four performances during the festival.
Zurich Insurance employs over 120 people in Wexford and its chief executive officer Ken Norgrove said the volunteering aspect of the festival was important in its decision to be sponsor.
“Wexford Festival Opera plays an integral role in its local community, from the opening of the new state-of-the-art Opera house, to the 350 local volunteers who dedicate considerable time and effort to ensure the continued success and promotion of the festival.
“2011 is the European Year of the Volunteer. To commemorate this and to highlight our commitment to Wexford Festival Opera and its volunteers we have launched the Wexford Festival Opera/Zurich Volunteer Award – for Outstanding Leadership and Development to be presented on an annual basis to the volunteer who has served to enhance the development, patron service and longevity of Wexford Festival Opera.”
It is estimated that the 2011 Festival will contribute in the region of €6 million to the local Wexford economy.
Photo: Soprano Claudia Boyle, who will sing the title role, David Mc Loughlin, chief executive of Wexford Festival Trust and Ken Norgrove, chief executive officer, Zurich General Insurance.
Sorcha Corcoran