Two Offaly singers to perform at Wexford Festival Opera
Two rising stars of opera from Offaly will perform as part of this year’s 75th Wexford Festival Opera at the National Opera House.
Deirdre Higgins and Rachael Conaghan are currently part of the acclaimed Wexford Factory programme 2026/2027 to the National Opera House in Wexford. Supported by PwC, the programme is designed to nurture emerging young talent - opera singers, répétiteurs, and stage managers - as they take their first steps into the industry.
Soprano Deirdre Higgins grew up singing all genres of music - from musical theatre to taking part in Scór na nÓg competitions. She studied her BA in Voice and Dance at the University of Limerick and was an Irish National Opera Studio member from 2023-2025.
Mezzo Soprano Rachael Conaghan is originally from Edenderry. She attended the Royal Irish Academy of music for her Bachelors and The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland for her Masters in Vocal Performance.
This Wexford Factory programme facilitates sixteen opera singers, three pianists and two stage managers to take part over the past month in an intensive programme of coaching, mentorship, and masterclasses led by international industry professionals such as renowned soprano Lisette Oropesa. Alongside their training, participants will gain invaluable performance experience throughout the 75th Wexford Festival Opera.
“Having previously been a chorus member in Wexford Festival Opera, I have been eager to come back as a Factory Artist, and feel privileged to do so this year. It is an intensive period, but this type of work is essential for us to develop both technicians and as artists. I feel incredibly lucky to be afforded this opportunity to work with such esteemed coaches and teachers, and to be part of such a respected opera festival,” said Deirdre Higgins
"Being part of Wexford Opera Festival feels like coming full circle. It's a festival I've admired for many years, and I'm so excited to experience it from the inside. I can't wait to learn, perform, meet inspiring people, and soak up every moment of what promises to be an unforgettable few weeks," Rachael Conaghan explained.
A highlight of this year's Factory Artist programme will be participation in The First Festival, a world premiere written by Colm Tóibín, and composer Alberto Caruso. The First Festival tells the story of the excitement that erupted in Wexford as news spread that an opera festival was being established in the town. Against a backdrop of anticipation and celebration, romance ensues. Written specifically for the young voices of the Wexford Factory, the work is designed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Festival and showcase the next generation of opera talent. Deirdre and Rachael will both perform in this production.
The 75th Wexford Festival Opera runs from October 15-31. Tickets are now on sale at wexfordopera.com
Wexford Festival Opera would like to acknowledge and thank The Arts Council, Wexford County Council, Fáilte Ireland/Ireland’s Ancient East and the Festival’s Friends, Sponsors, and Donors for their invaluable and continued support.