New opera boss claims audiences are ‘too white’
OPERA audiences are “so white that even white people feel uncomfortable”, the new chief executive of English National Opera has said.
Stuart Murphy, who joins ENO from the world of television, said the theatre world lagged behind broadcasters when it came to understanding its box office and audience, with a lack of diversity evident.
He believes opera must be relevant to younger audiences if it is to thrive, and hopes to “increase access” during his tenure.
Mr Murphy took on the role earlier this month, succeeding Cressida Pollock.
His appointment came as a surprise to many, due to a lack of professional roles in opera or theatre, having moved from Sky, where he was responsible for entertainment.
Mr Murphy said: “For a long time now I have wanted to pursue my passion for classical music and opera in a professional capacity, so it is a privilege to lead an organisation that is so committed to world-class artistic, musical and technical excellence.”
In an interview with The
Sunday Times Culture magazine, he said: “English National Opera is judged by every single box-office report, just like every single TV rating.
“My entire career has been about understanding the audience. Television understands a lot of data, but theatre is a bit behind.
“The audiences are so white that even white audiences feel uncomfortable, so I’ll be aiming to increase access.
“Opera is like Game of
Thrones. We need to have that relevance for younger audiences.
“We need to understand what people expect, but also to surprise them every now and then with great flights of imagination.
“I am personally committed to ensuring ENO continues to develop new audiences, partnerships and platforms in order to ensure that the company remains as thrilling and vital now as when it was first founded.”