Opera Kelowna taps Thomson
Laura Brookes - Mar 23, 2020 - People in Business

Photo: Contributed

Opera Kelowna has announced it will bring on nationally renowned conductor Rosemary Thomson as interim artistic director for the 2020 summer season.

Thomson has held the position of music director and conductor with the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra since 2007 and will remain in that position.

The dual appointments present a special set of opportunities for collaboration between Opera Kelowna and the symphony.

Opera Kelowna board co-chair Allan Neilson says the company is looking forward to what Thomson can help them achieve in the Okanagan.

“We inherit a clear sense of purpose from the company’s earliest years and are excited to take this next step with Rosemary Thomson at the helm,” Neilson said.

“Our vision is to weave Opera Kelowna into the cultural fabric of the Okanagan Valley, and we plan to do that in two ways: first, by bringing renowned international artists into the valley to delight our audiences; and second, by creating phenomenal opportunities for our extraordinary local artists to be involved in the creation of world-class opera on our stages.”

Thomson has garnered an impressive reputation for her involvement with operatic organizations throughout Canada, including Tapestry Opera in Toronto, Calgary Opera and the Vancouver Opera Association.

“Rosemary brings a wealth of knowledge to Opera Kelowna through her extensive experience of mentorship and conducting of choral and operatic productions. While the Okanagan Symphony’s and Opera Kelowna’s history and backgrounds are very different, we each bring a common vision to enhance and engage our communities through live performances, accessible community programming, and artistic excellence,” board president Judy Burns said.

For tickets and further information about Opera Kelowna, visit the website.


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