Big news from the Canadian Opera Company (COC) as General Director Perryn Leech unexpectedly steps down, effective immediately. The announcement, made by COC Board Chair Jonathan Morgan, leaves David C. Ferguson, former COC Board President, stepping in as interim GD.

Ferguson, an opera aficionado with a robust finance background, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as Executive Managing Director and CFO of BMO Capital Markets.

Leech, who joined COC in 2021 amid pandemic uncertainties, previously led Houston Grand Opera, marking a 40-year career in opera. His sudden exit follows financial concerns highlighted by the postponement of an upcoming production and the decision to mount Houston Grand Opera’s Madama Butterfly instead of an original work.

COC’s Morgan expressed gratitude for Leech’s contributions, assuring a continued commitment to artistic excellence during this transitional period. Stay tuned as this story unfolds.

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Michael Vincent

Michael Vincent is the Founder and General Manager Ludwig Van. He publishes regularly and writes occasionally. A specialist in digital media for over 20 years, he has worked as a senior editor and is a former freelance classical music critic for the Toronto Star. Michael holds a Doctorate in Music from the University of Toronto.

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