JERSEY Opera House has announced that Andy Eagle will stand down as interim director of the theatre just four weeks before it was due to open following a multi-million pound restoration project.
The surprise announcement from the board of the Jersey Opera House on Tuesday came amid an ongoing spat with the government over technical upgrades that were not included in the five-year £12.7 million refurbishment project but which Mr Eagle said were desperately needed.
It comes just weeks before the building was due to re-open with a gala concert to mark the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day.
In a statement, Jersey Opera House said that Mr Eagle stood down in order to be closer to his family in the UK.
“Andy has led the organisation through an important period of transition and change, and the board are sincerely grateful for the work he has done as we move the Opera House towards reopening. His leadership has helped to lay the groundwork for a new chapter in Jersey’s Opera House’s future,” it said.
It also quoted Mr Eagle as saying: “Andy Eagle stated: “This position was always intended to be interim, with the purpose of supporting the Opera House through a pivotal phase in its journey.
“With the reopening now on the horizon, I consider my responsibilities fulfilled. It has been a privilege to contribute to the restoration of such a distinguished venue. I extend my sincere best wishes to the dedicated team as they lead the Opera House into its next chapter.”
