BRIAN JAMES DAWSON, BOARD CHAIR, TAPESTRY OPERA
Toronto, ON – The Association for Opera in Canada (AOC) is delighted to announce that Brian Dawson, Board Chair of Tapestry Opera, has been named the recipient of the 2024 AOC Best in Governance Award, receiving honours in Toronto, ON and New York.
The Best in Governance Award recognizes outstanding leadership and support from opera company board members within Canada’s opera sector. In collaboration with our sister organization, OPERA America, this accolade celebrates the invaluable contributions of dedicated volunteers nationwide, whose commitment is essential to the vitality of opera companies and the communities they serve.
Brian Dawson’s leadership at Tapestry Opera has been nothing short of transformative. Under his guidance as Board Chair, Tapestry Opera has grown from an $800,000 organization in 2017 to a $1.8 million powerhouse in 2023. Brian’s expertise in fundraising, board leadership, and executive mentorship has been pivotal in this growth, enabling Tapestry to stage as many as three world premieres per year and launch significant national initiatives such as Women in Musical Leadership and The Canadian Opera Resource.
“Brian’s leadership has not only stabilized and grown the company but has also positioned Tapestry as a leading force in commissioning and premiering new operatic works in North America,” said Jaime Martino and Michael Hidetoshi Mori, Tapestry Opera’s executive team. “His love of the art form and personal dedication have laid the foundation for critically acclaimed productions and the building of a new legacy performing arts facility that will secure the company’s future.”
Brian has been instrumental in enhancing board representation, driving succession planning, and fostering a culture of mentorship and collaboration. His unwavering support and passion for contemporary opera have made him a cherished leader and a true friend to Tapestry Opera.
AOC’s Commitment to Excellence in Governance
The AOC Best in Governance Award supports the development of healthy work environments by exemplifying a culture of recognition and gratitude. It amplifies the efforts of distinguished board members to a national audience, strengthens the relationship between board members and the communities they serve, and highlights the tenets of good governance.
“Board members play a vital role in ensuring the strength and resiliency of our opera companies and the sector as a whole. Their dedication and leadership are the backbone of our organizations, enabling us to thrive and continue bringing the transformative power of opera to our communities,” said Christina Loewen, Executive Director of the Association for Opera in Canada. “We are thrilled to recognize Brian Dawson’s exceptional contributions and celebrate his impact on Tapestry Opera and the broader opera community.”
The award is open to all Professional Company Members in good standing. Nominations are assessed based on the nominee’s impact on the company’s success, board effectiveness, community engagement, and support for equity, diversity, and inclusion commitments.
Recognition Event
Brian Dawson will be honoured at a Canadian event coordinated with Tapestry Opera. He will also be invited to a recognition dinner in New York City during OPERA America’s National Trustee Weekend in early 2025, where he will be honoured alongside the recipients of OPERA America’s National Opera Trustees Recognition Award: Maria Lagios, Chicago Opera; Claire Liu, Houston Grand Opera; Bill Miller, Opera Columbus; Leah Solat, Annapolis Opera.
About the Association for Opera in Canada
The Association for Opera in Canada is the national association for opera companies and professionals in Canada. It seeks to create and sustain an environment that centralizes opera to Canadian life. Working with members across the country, the AOC advances the interests of Canada’s opera community, creating greater opportunities for opera audiences and professionals alike.
About Brian Dawson
Brian Dawson served as Executive Vice President and Managing Director of McLean Budden Limited (Investment Management), and Financial Analyst at SEI Financial Services (Consulting) prior to his retirement in 2011. Brian received a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Political Science and Economics from the University of Western Ontario and a Chartered Financial Analyst from the University of Virginia. Brian is passionate about opera and classical music and enjoys spending his time skiing, hiking, wilderness canoeing, travelling and entertaining.
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For More Information:
Christina Loewen
Executive Director
Association for Opera in Canada
Email: christinal@opera.ca
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