The Wexford Festival Opera has named Ethna Ryan as its “Volunteer of the Year” for 2022.

The award, which is presented in conjunction with Ecclesiastical, was voted on by fellow volunteers, the board, and the staff of the festival.

Ryan has been a volunteer with the festival for over 20 years, starting with her participation in the Lunchtime Recitals Programme. She has also sold programs at evening operas and worked hospitality roles such as looking after Festival guests and friends.

“The very survival of many charitable institutions is dependent on the volunteer sector and the dedicated volunteers at Wexford Opera Festival are no exception to this.  Their professionalism is a perfect complement to the world class performances that we witness during every festival.  I’d like to congratulate this year’s winner Ethna Ryan for the incredible work she has done over more than 20 years and for achieving this prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award 2022. At Ecclesiastical, we are delighted to be associated once again with this award and our particular congratulations also go to Eleanor and her team for their invaluable contribution to the Festival,” said John Devitt, Head of Business Development speaking on behalf of Ecclesiastical.

This year’s edition of the Wexford Festival Opera will open on Oct. 21 and runs through Nov. 6, 2022.