Manitoba Opera announced today that Michael Blais has accepted the position of executive director, effective August 1, 2025. Blais is currently the company’s director of operations and has been part of the administrative team since 2010. The position of executive director and that of artistic director are two newly created positions that were created following a leadership transition review the company recently undertook. The review was initiated following longtime General Director & CEO Larry Desrochers’s decision not to seek a renewal of his contract which expires in May 2026.
“The board of trustees and I are thrilled that Michael has accepted the appointment of executive director. He brings over 25 years of experience in the performing arts sector, with 15 of those right here at Manitoba Opera,” commented Board of Trustees Chair Lori Yorke.
“The board is looking forward to working with Michael and Larry over the next year to complete the leadership transition and position the company to grow and to adapt to the ever-evolving arts environment. This is a significant moment in Manitoba Opera’s evolution,” added Yorke. “As we begin the search for a new artistic director—someone who can build on the company’s artistic vision and deepen its connection with the community—we are also continuing the work of transition. In the months ahead, we’ll focus on reinforcing the new leadership structure, transferring key institutional knowledge, and advancing strategic priorities of the company.”
Michael Blais. Photo: R. Tinker
“I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside the organization – working with the community, our board of trustees and staff, patrons, as well as donors, sponsors, and funders to support the great work our artists and company does,” said Blais. “I’m honoured to continue serving Manitoba Opera in this new capacity, and I’m excited to help lead this next chapter for the company.”
As executive director, Blais will report to the board of trustees and will lead the organization in partnership with the artistic director. The executive director is responsible for the organization’s strategic leadership, financial management, fundraising, and administration, and plays a central role in sustaining Manitoba Opera’s reputation.
This key leadership role oversees all aspects of the company’s operations, including development, marketing and box office, governance, community engagement, education, and human resources. The executive director works closely with government agencies, donors, and arts partners to strengthen Manitoba Opera’s financial and organizational capacity, champion its vision, and support innovative programming that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of the community.
“Michael is an excellent choice for the company,” said Larry Desrochers, General Director & CEO. “His deep knowledge of the organization, unwavering commitment to the arts, and proven leadership make him uniquely qualified to take on this role. I have every confidence that under his guidance, Manitoba Opera will continue to serve the community with clarity of mission, creativity, and integrity.”
Effective August 8, Desrochers, who was hired in 2000 as general director & CEO, will act as the interim artistic director while the search is conducted to fill this role. He will continue to support the organization through this transition process until May 31, 2026.
