Edmonton Opera Announcement

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EDMONTON, Aug. 5 /CNW/ - Edmonton Opera Association (EOA) announced today that Mary Phillips-Rickey, CA, has advised the Board that she will be stepping down as the general manager by the end of October, 2010.

"Mary has played an integral role in the restructuring process and new strategy development, but decided that, although she is in agreement with the new direction of the company, the newly created position of Chief Executive Officer is not one in which she is interested," says Dianne Kipnes, Chair of the Edmonton Opera Board of Directors.

"Phillips-Rickey joined the company as GM in 2003 and retired the historical deficit. Under her leadership, the organization has been financially stable, while delivering wonderful regional opera productions," said Kipnes.

"Mary's success was achieved during a period when many other similar sized arts organizations were forced to close due to tough economic times and reduced financial support," adds Kipnes.

Phillips-Rickey thanked all of those involved with Edmonton Opera. "It was my honour and pleasure to work with this talented and dedicated group and bring superb opera to the stage. It is time for me to move on and leave room for an exciting new chapter at Edmonton Opera."

Kipnes said that it is especially poignant that Mary, who first appeared in opera in Winnipeg's production of La Bohème, will be departing during this season's Edmonton Opera production of La Bohème. This timeframe allows a smooth transition period and ensures Edmonton Opera will continue to provide performances that delight Edmontonians," said Kipnes.

"We wish Mary every success as she pursues new and exciting goals."

Brian Deedrick, Artistic Director of the EOA, added; "I have enjoyed working side by side with Mary for many years. Her business experience and opera knowledge has been very complementary to my creative approach to opera."

EOA has launched an international search for a new Chief Executive Officer to play a key role in the implementation of the company's re-structuring.

EOA is a successful regional opera company, with a proud 47-year history in Edmonton. In the 2010/11 season, Edmonton Opera will stage three well-known productions, including La Bohème (October 23 - 28, 2010) the Abduction from the Seraglio (February 5 - 11, 2011), and Tosca (April 9 - 14, 2011). A special comic family opera will be staged in collaboration with Fringe Theatre Adventures. The Barber of Barrhead runs February 16 - 25, 2011.

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For further information: Media Enquiries: Please contact Dianne Kipnes, Chair of the Edmonton Opera Board, Phone: [phone], Email: [email protected]