Opera singer turns to care work as hundreds protest

Opera singer Leah Marian Jones has switched careers due to funding cuts affecting the Welsh National Opera (WNO). She now works as a carer for the elderly. The WNO's funding has been reduced by 35%, leading to performance cuts next year. Hundreds of protestors, including members of the WNO chorus and orchestra, gathered at the Senedd to protest against these cuts. Performances at the protest included selections from operas and Welsh hymns. The WNO is considering voluntary redundancies and contract renegotiations to save costs. The cuts have been criticized as devastating for the opera and its future prospects. Minister for Culture and Social Justice Lesley Griffiths expressed regret over the cuts but emphasized the need to manage resources effectively in challenging times.