Farewell to our General Manager, Clíona Donnelly

It is with much sadness and with our hearts full of thanks that we announce that Clíona Donnelly is leaving Northern Ireland Opera.  Clíona joined the company back in 2011 when the company was producing its inaugural production of ‘Tosca’.

Throughout her time as General Manager, Clíona has established herself as true leader in the music and arts sector and has been instrumental in the many successes the company has achieved since its formation.  Her dedication to her role and to the development of arts practitioners and arts administrators is truly inspirational.  

“Clíona has been with NI Opera since its formation in 2011. Her dedication and input has been responsible for the international reputation the Company enjoys. Thank you, Clíona, for your years of dedication. I know NI Opera will always be in your heart as you will be in ours.”

Roy Bailie, Chairman.

“Northern Ireland Opera is saying ‘Adieu’ to its long-serving General Manager Clíona Donnelly. Appointed shortly after the Company’s Foundation in 2010, Cliona has played a major role in building the Company and helping achieve its now international reputation.  Her warm, welcoming personality combined with intense dedication and a capacity for hard work quickly established her as a major player on NI’s music scene, and someone who made things happen. She was awarded a BEM for Services to music and young people on the Birthday Honours list in 2018.

She will be very much missed, not least by the many young artists she has supported during her tenure.”

Fionnuala Jay O’Boyle, Vice Chair.

As the somewhat new Chief Executive and Artistic Director of NI Opera, I could not have asked for a more caring and more well-prepared arrival back in 2021. Clíona’s kindness and graciousness has truly made me feel very welcomed into my new role and I take this opportunity to thank her for all her hard work and unwavering dedication to opera and the company.  

Cameron Menzies, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of NI Opera

All of us at Northern Ireland Opera wish Clíona and her family all the very best for their exciting new addition and to the next thrilling chapter.