A message from the Chair of Garsington Opera, Miranda Curtis, as we prepare to say farewell to Nicky as Executive Director.
Since we announced Nicky’s decision to step down from her role of Executive Director, we have been heartened by the many messages received from our Members and friends reflecting on Nicky’s contributions to Garsington Opera.
In the 26 years that Nicky has been part of Garsington Opera, it has been transformed from its roots at Garsington Manor, first by the move to our award-winning opera pavilion at Wormsley and latterly by building Garsington Studios as an impressive new resource for the company and the sector. Under Nicky’s stewardship, most recently alongside Artistic Director Douglas Boyd, Garsington has grown in profile and artistic quality whilst remaining true to founder Leonard Ingrams’ original vision, with a steadfast eye on creating great art in a welcoming environment for both audiences and artists alike.
That we are in such a strong position both financially and organisationally, is testament to Nicky’s passion, commitment and strength of character. No one else could have achieved so much with so little, all delivered with Nicky’s characteristic combination of charm and efficiency. The ethos of the Garsington Opera festival, the success of our beautiful auditorium, and the exciting new possibilities offered by the Studios are all core elements of Nicky’s legacy, of which she should be rightly proud.
Far from a quiet retirement, we know that Nicky will continue to be involved in arts-associated projects as a consultant, and will support the sector with her typical energy and passion, particularly advocating for the arts in her role as a Deputy Lieutenant for Oxfordshire. We are also delighted that Nicky will continue her association with us as she has agreed to become a Garsington Ambassador.
On behalf of the entire board and staff of Garsington Opera, I would like to thank Nicky for her years of dedication, and for her support in handing the baton to her successor, Ben Weston. We look forward to seeing Nicky at festival time for many years to come, both as an audience member and as a much valued friend.