Manitoba Opera general director and CEO Larry Desrochers will step down from his role in 2026.
Manitoba Opera announced that longtime general director and CEO Larry Desrochers will step down when his contract ends in May 2026, marking the end of a 25-year tenure.
Desrochers informed the board of his decision in early 2023. Since then, a leadership transition committee has developed a new governance model that will split his current role into two: executive director and artistic director.
The new executive director has been selected and will be announced in July. Desrochers will serve as interim artistic director starting August 8, supporting the transition until his departure.
“This is a pivotal moment in the evolution of Manitoba Opera,” said board chair Judith Chambers. “For 25 years Larry Desrochers has led with vision, creativity, and a deep
commitment to our community, helping to elevate the company’s standing as one of Canada’s leading opera companies.”
A lifelong Manitoban, Larry Desrochers has spent over 40 years advancing the arts across opera, theatre, film, and major events. Before leading Manitoba Opera, he held roles with the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, founded the Winnipeg Fringe Festival, and directed the Winnipeg Film Group. He also produced the 1999 Pan Am Games ceremonies.
Desrochers’ contributions have earned him numerous honours, including the University of Winnipeg’s Distinguished Alumni Award, Opera America’s Distinguished Service Award, and the Winnipeg Arts Council’s Making a Difference Award.
