One of Northern Ireland’s champions of opera has said he is “completely overwhelmed” after being made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours. Roy Bailie, chairman of NI Opera, has been recognised for services to the economy and opera in the region. Tasked by the Arts Council for Northern Ireland to set up a new opera company in 2010, Mr Bailie has guided NI Opera to deliver productions winning international acclaim as well as developing and nurturing numerous young local singers.
“I could not be more proud of what this small but extremely professional and effective company has achieved both on the local and international stage. “I would also like to pay tribute to my wife Paddy and my family for their unswerving support throughout every aspect of my career.” “His extensive business expertise, visionary thinking and dogged determination have resulted in an opera company of which Northern Ireland can be justly proud.
“He has taken a traditional artform and given his team the freedom to think laterally and beyond the limits of preconceived ideas. “He has also created a Young Artist’s Programme to encourage young local singers to develop their talent.” Mr Menzies added: “His pragmatic approach alongside generous and unlimited hours of his time have enabled us to reach a whole new audience for the artform.
“Roy is such a worthy recipient.” Roisin McDonough chief executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ire.
