Media Releases

For Immediate Release July 5, 2011
Media Contact Jelena Bojic, Marketing & Communications
780.424.4040 x235 | jelena.bojic@edmontonopera.com

Artistic Director Brian Deedrick Resigns

It is with great regret that Edmonton Opera announces the resignation of its artistic director Brian Deedrick. For the past nine years Mr. Deedrick has been an integral part of the company, helping to create a production standard of excellence. His unparalleled passion for the art form has seen the Edmonton Opera become recognized as one of the premiere arts companies in Edmonton, winning numerous awards and accolades. Under his leadership Edmonton audiences have been treated to outstanding productions such as 2006 Bluebeard’s Castle / Erwartung, 2008 Falstaff, 2010 Otello and 2011 Tosca, just to name a few. In his resignation letter, Mr. Deedrick stated that a recent injury had led to the decision and as a result his focus must lie elsewhere than the Edmonton Opera at this point in time.

Joanne Beaton, chair of Edmonton Opera board said “The energy and passion Brian brought to his creative work and to us as an opera company will be sorely missed. All of us at Edmonton Opera, Board, Staff and Volunteers alike wish him a speedy recovery.”

In his resignation letter Mr. Deedrick stated, “This is certainly the most difficult decision I have ever made, I will take pride in knowing that we are all a part of a great company in a great city. I very much look forward to returning at the end of the coming season, hale and hearty, to direct the closing production of Fidelio.”

Reflecting on Mr. Deedrick’s many contributions Ms Beaton noted, “At the end of his yearly reports to the Opera’s Annual General Meetings, Brian would always comment, ‘Opera is alive and well in Edmonton!’ Speaking for all the Board and the company I have to say that is, in no small way, part of Brian’s legacy to Edmonton Opera and more importantly to Edmonton.”