Fiona played an integral part in the evolution of Opera Holland Park from the early years of this century until illness prevented her from continuing as a trustee of Opera Holland Park in 2019. While she was in good health, she was a regular attender of performances in our theatre and was passionate about opera.

Fiona was a solicitor with her own practice in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Previously she worked as an in house lawyer for The Thomson Corporation, leaving when they sold The Times and Sunday Times. She specialised in commercial law, acting mainly for publishers and the media, and was a liveryman of The Stationers’ Company and a trustee of The London Children’s Ballet.

A tireless friend and advocate

The first ticket Fiona bought at Opera Holland Park was for Madama Butterfly in 2000. She joined the fledgling body of the Friends of Opera Holland Park in 2006. She then became a trustee of and the legal advisor to the Friends for whom she worked tirelessly.

When Opera Holland Park became independent of the Royal Borough in 2015, Fiona became a trustee of the new company as well as secretary to the Board. Her expertise as a trustee and lawyer made her invaluable to the new Board.

Indebted

Since her retirement she has been much missed by her fellow Board members. Opera Holland Park is greatly indebted to Fiona for her support, advice and the important contribution she has made to the successful development of our company.

James Clutton, Chief Executive and Director of Opera, writes: “I was very sad to hear the news about Fiona. She was a vital part of Opera Holland Park for many years: as a supporter, board member, advisor and friend. A special person with a special bond to all of us here. We will miss her very much.”