August 19, 2009
For immediate release

Director of Production Recognized with National Technical Achievement Award

Calgary, AB – At a recent meeting of Canadian Institute for Theatre Technology, Tom McCarthy, Director of Production at Calgary Opera, was awarded the Ron Epp Memorial Award for Professional Achievement for his longstanding contribution to the theatre community.

“It’s great to see Tom recognized for his exemplary contribution to the arts community in Canada,” says W.R. (Bob) McPhee, Calgary Opera General Director and CEO.  “We’ve always known that he is a remarkable part of our team, but to have him recognized on a National level is wonderful.”

Tom McCarthy has been with Calgary Opera for 10 seasons, managing the creation of 4 world premieres and 15 new productions.  Before joining Calgary Opera, Mr. McCarthy worked as the General Manager of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra for 10 years.  He has held production positions at the Shaw Festival, National Arts Centre, Saidye Bronfman Centre, Citadel Theatre, the Banff Centre for the Arts, the Arts Festival for the 15th Olympic Winter Games and produced a year long running musical called Blue Champagne. 

“The people who win this award are hugely accomplished theatre professionals and I’m stunned and amazed to be included in their company,” says Tom McCarthy.

Past recipients of the Ron Epp Memorial Award for Professional Achievement are Harry Frehner, Richard Stoker, Jaque Paquin, Robert Hamilton, Jacques Tanguay and most recently Michael J. Whitfield.

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For further information, please contact: Alex Bonyun, Calgary Opera

403-802-3403, or abonyun@calgaryopera.com.