![Donald Maxwell (Dai Great Coat) in WNO's 'In Parenthesis', 2016 Donald Maxell playing Dai Great Coat in WNO production of 'In Parenthesis'.](https://www.artsprofessional.co.uk/sites/artsprofessional.co.uk/files/styles/400-by-300/public/untitled_design_93.png?itok=4XTg7dN2)
Bill Cooper
Opera Singer DONALD MAXWELL joins the Board of Directors at Welsh National Opera (WNO).
Maxwell has been a professional opera singer for more than 45 years, making his debut with WNO in 1982, and over the next 35 years gave over 500 performances with the Company in 30 different roles.
He has also been closely associated with WNO audiences as President of the WNO Friends.
Previously, Maxwell was Director of the National Opera Studio for seven years and Head of Opera Studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama.
"Welsh National Opera has been a central part of my life for over 40 years, and I had the good fortune to perform some wonderful roles with the Company," Maxwell said.
"These are now challenging times for opera and for performers.
"I look forward to helping WNO meet these challenges and also making sure that the Company's marvellous work over the last 75 years continues to inspire and delight audiences of all ages."
Chair of WNO's Board YVETTE VAUGHAN JONES added that Maxwell brings "invaluable experience" and will "further strengthen the skills of [WNO's] current board members".