Nicola Candlish CEO

Nicola began music at school with the standard issue recorder, but soon took it upon herself to put down a deposit on a saxophone, much to the horror of her parents who were left with the bill.  She went on to study music at Durham University, from her Bachelor of Arts through to her PhD, before starting out as a Stage Manager working in many of the UK opera companies – from English Touring Opera to Buxton International Festival and Opera Holland Park.  She also tackled the joy of British pantomime seasons, and travelled the world on tour with Shakespeare’s Globe.  Moving on to the Royal Academy of Music as Producer and Opera Company Manager, she negotiated the challenges of producing opera over two years in external venues while the academy was refurbished, and managed a visit from the Royals. Taking on her current role as CEO of British Youth Opera, Nicola was able to use the skills she had learnt along the way to inform her work heading up a company that provides professional opportunities for singers, musicians and technical trainees all of whom are all at the beginning of their operatic careers. Find out more about BYO here and more about taking part in their upcoming season here Read more about OperaUK where Nicola is a founding director here and join and support them here