Opera North has appointed Minhaz Abedin as its youngest ever trustee on their board.

The Board of Opera North comprises fourteen Trustees, led by Chair Paul Lee OBE and supported by Vice Chairs Renee Hunt and Rosie Millard OBE. Trustees may serve for up to three terms each of three years. The three most recent Trustees, Rachel Elwell, Sarah Hall and Dominic Wallis, were announced at the beginning of 2022.

Minhaz Abedin said:“I am thrilled to be joining the Board of Opera North, an organisation that is at a pivotal stage in furthering its adaptability and inclusivity.

"Having grown up in Leeds and admired the progress of the Company for many years, I am delighted to have the opportunity to further its commitment to ‘Extraordinary experiences every day’ through music and opera.

“I hope that together we can entice a new generation of supporters to Opera North.”

Richard Mantle, General Director/CEO, Opera North, said: “We are delighted to welcome Minhaz to the Board of Trustees at Opera North. Through our extensive Education and Community Partnerships programmes and initiatives such as our Under 30s Scheme and the Whistle Stop Operas, we’re committed to attracting the audiences and performers of tomorrow to our art form.

“As we prepare to bring together South Asian and Western traditions in our reimagining of Monteverdi’s Orpheus this autumn, we’re excited to see how Minhaz’s vast experience as an advocate for marginalised voices can help us to bring the magic of live performance to new audiences.”

Paul Lee, Chair, Opera North, said: “I am very happy to welcome Minhaz to the Board of Trustees, which plays a vital part in the Opera North’s life and governance.

"I’m confident that his unique combination of local knowledge and international experience as a charity leader and driver of change will guide and enrich the Company’s work significantly over the coming years.”