Calgary Opera Names New Director and CEO

Arts executive Sue Elliott will step into the role in November 2023

Previous to joining Canada's Calgary Opera on November 20, 2023, Sue Elliott held senior positions at the Houston Grand Opera and Seattle Opera.

She is also responsible for the commissioning of more than twenty new works — including the world’s first mariachi opera, Cruzar le cara de la luna. She also commissioned An American Dream, an opera that follows the forced removal and incarceration of Japanese Americans during the Second World War.

Elliott was previously the inaugural Director of the Tanglewood Learning Institute and Linde Center for Music and Learning. A stint at Canada's Royal Conservatory of Music also saw her create an online professional development, certificate, and accreditation program for private music teachers.

"We are thrilled to have Sue join us as General Director and CEO," said Don Edie, Chair of the Calgary Opera Board of Directors. "She has a keen understanding of the cultural service that this 400-year-old art form provides in the 21st century."

"Sue brings to Calgary Opera success in developing new work, incorporating cross-sector collaborations, as well as expertise in engaging audiences from all walks of life through traditional and non-traditional programming. Sue intends to both enrich the lives of Calgarians and elevate the company’s prominence within the industry and I am personally looking forward to seeing that ambition blossom into fruition."

"I have long admired Calgary Opera, whose successes commissioning new work, nurturing Canadian artists, and producing engaging performances and programs has cemented its reputation as one of the country’s most innovative and ambitious arts organizations," Elliott said.

"There is a unique enthusiasm for opera here, and I look forward to collaborating with Jonathan, the Board of Directors, professional staff, artists, donors, audiences, and community members in realizing an even brighter future for this dynamic and distinguished company."