WNO leaders among Royal Welsh College honorary fellows
Welsh National Opera co-chief executives Adele Thomas and Sarah Crabtree are among the artists and cultural leaders named as the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama’s 2026 honorary fellows.
The fellowships, announced as the college launches a new strategic framework focused on the future of the arts in Wales, recognise individuals whose contributions have shaped cultural life in Wales and beyond.
Joining Thomas and Crabtree in this year’s cohort are set and costume designer Hayley Grindle, Southbank Centre head of classical music Toks Dada, Craidd director for change Sara Beer, horn player Ben Goldscheider and Welsh bassist Pino Palladino.
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Olivier award-winning actor Anjana Vasan and soprano Nuccia Focile also formally received fellowships that had previously been awarded in absentia last year.
Accepting the honour, Thomas and Crabtree described art as "a powerful mirror to the truth" that “forces us to reckon with ourselves, challenging our perceptions of who we are now".
They encouraged graduates to "be brave" and "fight for a more equitable future", adding that "the greatest works of art are still to be written".
Royal Welsh College principal Helena Gaunt said the fellows were "distinctly original and influential artists who are industry change-makers", praising their "belief in the power of community and engagement, and a deep commitment to excellence in craft".
Gaunt said the fellows embodied the values of creativity, inclusion and community, adding that recognising those who champion the arts had never been more important as the sector continues to face significant challenges.
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