OperaUpClose Appoints Hazel Province as New Chair of Trustees

OperaUpClose is delighted to announce the appointment of Hazel Province as its new Chair of Trustees from January 2025.

With a strong background in both the public and private sectors at local, national and international level, Hazel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in arts leadership, governance, and strategic development.  

She has enjoyed an extensive career in the classical music industry as a violinist, artists’ manager, executive and non-executive director, including significant tenures at RB&O, Covent Garden as Orchestra Director and, later, Director of Planning. Now based in the South West of England, she is a governor of the Royal Northern College of Music, Chair of the Arts Development Company, mentor to a number of musicians and cultural leaders and a regular contributor to industry research projects.  

OperaUpClose Trustee, Matthew Lyons (Head of Young Company, Chickenshed Theatre) said: 

“Following an open and extensive recruitment process, the decision to appoint Hazel to the Chair of Trustees was entirely unanimous. We are all greatly looking forward to working with her and feel certain her support and guidance will be invaluable to OperaUpClose in the coming years. Hazel succeeds Acting Chair, Charith Cabraal, whose dedication and leadership has helped steer us towards this exciting new chapter in the governance of the organisation.” 

Speaking about her appointment, Hazel Province said: 

"I am thrilled to take on the role of Chair of Trustees at OperaUpClose. I have watched this company grow from its innovative and award - winning beginnings and I greatly admire its commitment to producing thought-provoking opera in such an inclusive and welcoming environment. I am looking forward to working with the OperaUpClose team as they continue to extend their reach and impact whilst boldly challenging the conventions of the traditional opera experience. 

OperaUpClose’s Artistic Director, Flora McIntosh, added: 

"All of us at OperaUpClose are absolutely delighted to welcome Hazel to the team. Her extensive experience, knowledge and networks in the arts, her passion for accessible cultural programming and her track record of developing sustainable business models will be invaluable as we continue to innovate, diversify and evolve the sector through our high quality, adventurous programme. We are so excited for the future and feel stronger than ever under Hazel’s guidance."