The Toronto Consort, an internationally recognized producer of medieval, renaissance and early baroque repertoire is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Andrew Adridge as Executive Director, effective May 1st. As an opera producer, multidisciplinary artist, and administrator Andrew Adridge brings an impressive array of skills to the Consort, now entering its sixth decade as a collective ensemble. Toronto audiences especially will recognize Andrew’s experiences with The Canadian Opera Company as Assistant Director (Carmen, Macbeth, Mozart’s Requiem), and Against the Grain Theatre’s Identity: A Song Cycle. In addition to his performances as baritone soloist in Soundstream’s Electric Messiah, Andrew has appeared in productions at the Banff Centre (No One’s Safe) and University of Toronto Opera (Don Giovanni). His administrative expertise includes operations with Association for Opera in Canada, advancement with Tapestry Opera, artistic production with the Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity (Opera in the 21st Century), and artistic administration with Against the Grain Theatre (Metcalf Performing Arts Internship). “I am elated to join the Toronto Consort as its Executive Director at this most exciting juncture. The Consort has poised itself to establish a deepened connection with its existing audience and a new, meaningful relationship with the civic community at large. The pieces are all there to solidify a place in contemporary society for this long-established organization and the staff, board, and artistic team all have a hunger and a desire to do so. I seek to leverage my civic practice experience along with an ability to synthesize big-picture goals into actionable systematic processes and help lead this growth and development over the next chapter of the Consort’s existence.” Andrew’s appointment coincides with the promotion of seasoned arts administrator Addie Thomas Smith, who assumes the dual responsibilities of Senior Director Engagement and Education, and Managing Director of Early Music TV, the Consort’s digital platform. “On behalf of our Artistic Associates, patrons, subscribers, and volunteers we enthusiastically welcome Andrew to our Consort family, and extend to him our utmost support as he embarks on this next phase of his impressive career. With his talent as an artist and community builder, combined with Addie’s vision for audience enrichment and education through Early Music, we are fortunate indeed with their leadership.
Heather Turnbull, President of the Board, The Toronto Consort/Early Music TV