Mark Evans

I’m Mark Llewelyn Evans — a creative entrepreneur, educator, opera singer, and author passionate about empowering others through the arts. Trained at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and the National Opera Studio, I’ve spent over 25 years performing on international stages, from the Royal Opera House to Welsh National Opera.

I am a passionate and creative individual with over 20 years of experience inspiring young people through creativity, music, and storytelling. Since founding ABC of Opera in 2015, I’ve worked with more than 40,000 children across the UK, helping them build confidence, develop teamwork, and express themselves through the arts.

My approach to teaching makes learning engaging, inclusive, and fun — empowering children to discover their potential, celebrate diversity, and believe in themselves.

As an author, I’ve written a children’s book series that brings classical composers to life with humour and heart, and as an educator, I strive to make the arts accessible to every child, regardless of background or ability.

I am now looking for employment opportunities within the social care or youth support sector, where I can continue using creativity, empathy, and communication to make a lasting difference in young people’s lives.

At my core, I believe creativity changes lives. Whether on stage, in a classroom, or in the community, my mission remains the same: to show that with imagination and belief, Any Body Can.

Key Skills

• Strong communicator who builds trust and rapport quickly with children, teachers, and families
• Experienced in delivering engaging workshops that combine creativity, learning, and fun
• Passionate about inclusion and supporting young people of all abilities and backgrounds
• Skilled in motivating and inspiring groups through storytelling, performance, and teamwork
• Confident public speaker with proven success in youth engagement and education projects
• Dedicated to promoting self-belief, resilience, and positive values in young learners

Employment History

Founder & CEO – ABC of Opera (2016 – 2025)

• Created and led a national education programme introducing opera and storytelling to children in over 197 schools.
• Delivered interactive workshops that encouraged creativity, teamwork, and self-expression.
• Designed educational resources that made classical music accessible and exciting for young audiences.
• Built lasting partnerships with schools, community organisations, and arts charities.

Artistic Director – Opera Sark (2016 – 2022)

• Led community outreach projects and family workshops to introduce young audiences to music and performance.
• Developed creative learning experiences that connected young people with professional performers.

Opera Performer & Workshop Facilitator – Welsh National Opera (1994 – 2025)

• Performed as a Principal Operatic Baritone while leading school workshops to inspire interest in the performing arts.
• Engaged children and families through interactive storytelling and creative performances.

Singing Teacher – Pencoed Comprehensive School & Tonypandy Comprehensive School (1994 – 2010)

• Supported young people’s vocal development and confidence through one-to-one and group lessons.
• Encouraged self-expression and creativity through music and performance.

Visiting Tutor – Stagecoach (Carmarthen, Swansea, Merthyr, Bristol) (2000 – 2008)

• Taught performance and communication skills to children aged 6–18.
• Created inclusive environments where every student could shine and grow in confidence.

Guest Lecturer – University of Wales Trinity St David (2019 – 2024)

• Delivered sessions on “Creativity in the Classroom,” helping future educators inspire young minds through the arts.

Achievements & Community Involvement 

Achievements:

• Founded a nationally recognised education programme that reached over 40,000 young people
• Published four children’s books (“The Academy of Barmy Composers” series) making opera fun and accessible
• Delivered 350+ workshops with 100% positive feedback from schools and participants
• Partnered with major organisations including the Arts Council of Wales, Welsh National Opera, and the Waterloo Foundation

Community Involvement:

• Supported young people across Wales through outreach and mentoring initiatives.
• Acted. encouraging confidence and self-belief.
• Promoted opportunities for young performers and helped raise awareness for charitable causes.

Education /Training

• Guildhall School of Music and Drama – BA (Hons) & Masters in Opera Studies
• National Opera Studio, London –Development in Performance and Creativity
• Leadership and Public Speaking (Ongoing CPD)
• Safeguarding, Prevent, and Recognising and Preventing FGM Training
• Level 1 & 2 ALN (Additional Learning Needs) – Touch Trust Charity Cardiff
• 8 O-Levels | 3 A-Levels (History, Economics, Religious Studies)