Warshawski Leaves Napa Valley Opera House

The issued a brief press release Tuesday announcing that Evy Warshawski is no longer artistic director for the historic hall:

The Napa Valley Opera House announced today that Artistic Director Evy Warshawski has indicated she will be leaving, after more than six years with the Opera House, to pursue new opportunities.  NVOH has engaged Bay Area arts management professional Chris Smith on an interim basis while identifying her successor.

“I have so enjoyed my time at the Opera House, and it’s been a terrific ride,” Evy said.  “I look forward to being an Opera House supporter from a seat in the audience.”  She has offered to assist in the transition as needed.

“The Opera House Board and all of our patrons owe Evy our gratitude for bringing outstanding artists to Napa for many years. We will miss her skills and enthusiasm, and wish her the best in her new pursuits,” said NVOH Board Chairman Bob Almeida.  “We are also thrilled to have Chris join us and provide the benefit of his deep experience and leadership during this transitional period.  Evy leaves us with the bulk of our Summer schedule already in place.  The addition of Chris will ensure that our patrons will continue to enjoy the world-class entertainment which has become the hallmark of NVOH.”

Smith brings to this role extensive experience in the performing arts, including five years as Artistic Director of the Magic Theatre in San Francisco, and will fulfill programming and development duties for NVOH.

Warshawski and her husband Morrie, an author and arts consultant, live in Napa.

During her time at the Opera House, she presented acts including Willie Nelson, Elvis Costello, Orchestre Baobab from Senegal and many other top-tier performers.

Warshawski also created the popular "Idol NV" teen singing contest, which has taken place every other year since 2007. There's no immediate word on whether the competition will return in 2013.