Waterperry founder moves to The Grange Festival
Thursday, April 3, 2025
Guy Verrall-Withers will take up the role of Director of Audiences and Impact at the Hampshire-based opera festival
The Grange Festival has announced Guy Verrall-Withers, founder of Oxfordshire's Waterperry Opera Festival, as its new Director of Audiences and Impact. The new role is said to showcase The Grange's 'commitment to growing audiences' for opera and the arts, and comes shortly after the arrival of Chief Executive Tyler Stoops who joined in July 2024.
Verrall-Withers founded Waterperry Opera Festival in 2017, where he is currently Artistic Director and CEO. During his tenure, he has produced 36 new productions and focused on developing opera for young audiences.
In this new role, Verrall-Withers will lead The Grange Festival’s strategic approach to audience development and public engagement, including leading initiatives to expand the audience base and extend the Festival's reach. He will work alongside Artistic Director Michael Chance and Director of Learning Susan Hamilton to create pathways for new audiences of all ages and backgrounds to discover opera and the performing arts.
Tyler Stoops, Chief Executive of The Grange Festival said of Verrall-Withers' appointment: 'Guy's proven track record in creative innovation, audience engagement and talent development will be a fantastic addition to our team. We have big ambitions for the Festival, and Guy’s role will ensure many more people will come to experience opera and the stunning performances we create.'
Speaking of taking on the role, Verrall-Withers said: ‘I am delighted to join The Grange Festival at this exciting time of growth and evolution under Tyler’s leadership,’ said Verrall-Withers. ‘The Festival's commitment to artistic excellence, combined with its stunning historic setting, creates an unparalleled platform for connecting new audiences with transformative arts experiences. I look forward to building on the Festival's success and working with the team to expand our impact.’
Verrall-Withers will begin the role on a part-time basis this Spring, then joining full-time in late August 2025 after his final year overseeing Waterperry Opera Festival.
