Fleur Snow

I was about to finish my undergraduate degree in English and French when I decided I wanted to pursue a career as a director on the opera stage. I was already a musician and had some experience in amateur productions, but I knew of course that I needed official training before venturing into the workplace. After four years of university, continuing to study was not an easy alternative to looking for work, but I was very fortunate to receive a James Pantyfedwen Foundation grant that allowed me to complete a Masters’ Course in Opera Directing at the Royal College of Music and Drama in Cardiff.

The purpose of the course was to develop technical, creative and musical skills over two years of study. I had the opportunity to learn first-hand from professional directors, as well as having regular assessments that really helped me develop confidence and style. I have learned so much about the technical elements that underpin any stage production - without the course, the path would have been much harder. Another major benefit of the course was the connection with the Welsh National Opera, and especially the opportunity to work on one of their productions as assistant director. Unfortunately, the company had to postpone production due to the pandemic, but, finally, I'll be coming to the end of the tour this summer.

In May, I will be graduating with Distinction from the College, and will embark on the final module by being part of the new opera 'Migrations' with the Welsh National Opera. I cannot wait! Looking to the future, the opportunity afforded to me by the James Pantyfedwen Foundation allows me to continue to pursue my dream. Last summer, I was one of two assistant directors selected by the British Youth Opera on the 2021 productions, and this year I will be the assistant director with West Green House Opera before (hopefully!) moving to Germany to learn more about German opera.

I am very, very grateful for this important support at the start of my career, and I hope that I will have the opportunity to repay the world of Welsh opera throughout my career journey.