Welcoming Guy Verrall-Withers as our new Director of Audiences & Impact

We are delighted to announce that Guy Verrall-Withers will be our new Director of Audiences and Impact at The Grange Festival, to build on our record-breaking growth and welcome new generations of opera and arts audiences to The Grange.

Guy joins us from Waterperry Opera Festival, which he co-founded in 2017 and where he currently serves as Artistic Director and CEO. During his tenure, he transformed Waterperry into a nationally recognised platform for talent development and creative innovation in opera.

"Guy's appointment underscores the exciting new chapter we've begun at The Grange Festival," said Tyler Stoops, Chief Executive. "His proven track record in creative innovation, audience engagement and talent development will be a fantastic addition to our team. We have big ambitions for the Festival, and Guy's role will ensure many more people will come to experience opera and the stunning performances we create."

In this new role, Guy will lead our strategic approach to audience development and public engagement, spearheading initiatives to expand our audience base and extend the Festival's reach. He will collaborate closely with Artistic Director Michael Chance and Director of Learning Susan Hamilton to create pathways for new audiences of all ages and backgrounds to discover opera and the performing arts.

Guy begins his role on a part-time basis this Spring, and will be a fixture at Festival performances, then joining full-time in late August 2025 after his final year overseeing Waterperry Opera Festival.