Longborough Festival Opera Executive Director departs

Executive Director of Longborough Festival Opera (LFO) JENNIFER SMITH will step down after nine years in post.

Smith leaves to assume the role of Domestic Bursar at Balliol College, University of Oxford, in late autumn this year.

During Smith's tenure, LFO underwent a period of significant expansion. She worked with Artistic Director POLLY GRAHAM to adapt to the pandemic by relocating the 2021 season to a 270-seat circus tent.

Music Director ANTHONY NEGUS called Smith a “wonderful force for transformation with her energy, passion and love for music”. 

Graham added: "Jennifer’s leadership has been instrumental in the festival's growth and success, and she has brought us through some challenging years, especially recently, with flying colours.

“We're sad to see her move on while looking forward to finding a worthy successor."

Smith said: “Longborough is, and always has been, an outstanding festival.”

“I have been incredibly fortunate to work with committed colleagues, trustees, artists and the inspirational Graham family. I am brimming with pride on what we have collectively achieved.” 

"While my career now takes me in a new direction, I will continue to be a cheerleader for Longborough and its important work both on and off stage.”