Welsh National Opera has announced the appointment of a new interim chief, Christopher Barron, who will take up the role of General Director early in the New Year.
Christopher has a strong background in arts management and leadership, including an early role as general manager of the Edinburgh International Festival. Throughout his career he has worked in drama, opera, dance and music, and has held significant positions including chief executive of Birmingham Royal Ballet, chief executive of Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, and artistic director and chief executive of the Brighton Festival and Dome.
WNO’s current general director, Aidan Lang, will retire at the end of the year after four years in the role and more than 40 years in opera around the world.
Christopher's new role will provide stability for WNO over the next year as it fulfils its programme obligations and prepares for the appointment of a new permanent leader, the search for whom will begin as he joins the company.
Christopher said: “I was lucky enough to see several WNO productions as a student in Swansea, and I've followed and been hugely impressed by the company’s work throughout my career.
"I'm really delighted to be joining the team now: my priority will be to act as guardian to the company, planning for its future while continuing to deliver artistic excellence in all it presents including the extensive programme in the community.”
WNO chair Yvette Vaughan-Jones added, “We are at an important stage, where we need to ensure we continue to deliver artistic vibrancy and financial stability in all areas of our work. Christopher's vast experience and skills will give us this stability and allow us to ensure continuity of our work."
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