Blackwater Valley Opera Festival has announced the appointment of Dermot O’Callaghan as Executive Director from January 2027, alongside Annette O’Kelly as Producer and Ann-Marie Ahearne as Education and Community Co-Ordinator, both commencing in October 2026.
Dermot O’Callaghan appointed Executive Director
Dermot O’Callaghan takes up the role of Executive Director of Blackwater Valley Opera Festival in January 2027.
Dermot has been Chief Executive of Sing Ireland, Ireland's national organisation for group singing, since 2013. During this time, he led the organisation's transformation from the Association of Irish Choirs to Sing Ireland in 2019, overseeing significant organisational and financial growth and expanding its programmes, partnerships and reach across Ireland. His work has included artistic programming, fundraising, music education and advocacy, with a strong commitment to widening participation in music.
Earlier in his career, Dermot worked with Opera Theatre Company, where he was responsible for the Young Associate Artists' Programme, and with Chamber Choir Ireland. He has also worked as a choral and orchestral conductor, musical director, and vocal and instrumental teacher.
Dermot is President of the European Choral Association, working with music organisations and cultural leaders across Europe to support the development of collective singing.
Recognising 10 years of leadership and commitment
Outgoing Festival Director Eamonn Carroll leaves following 10 years with Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, including three years on the Board and seven years as Festival Director. He takes up the role of Development and Alumni Manager at South East Technological University (SETU) in Waterford.
Across his Board membership and executive leadership, Eamonn has helped shape the festival’s strategic development and organisational growth. His work has included strengthening relationships with sponsors, donors and supporters, alongside the partnerships that sustain the festival’s artistic programme and community connections.
Patrick Howett, Chair of Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Dermot O’Callaghan as our new Executive Director. He will join us in January 2027 after completing his notice period as Chief Executive of Sing Ireland. Dermot brings a wealth of experience, and we are confident that he will help drive BVOF’s ambitions forward.
“Eamonn has given great commitment to BVOF over a 10-year period. He served as a Board member for three years before being appointed Festival Director, a role he held for seven years. His leadership and the relationships he has built have made a lasting contribution to the festival. On behalf of the Board, we offer our warmest thanks and wish him every success in his new role at SETU.”
Annette O’Kelly appointed Producer
Annette O’Kelly takes up the role of Producer in October 2026, succeeding Conleth Stanley. A seasoned producer, Annette began her career in film before moving into television, advertising and festivals. In 2017, she joined Borris Festival of Writing and Ideas, where she produced the highly regarded festival for many years. She has also enjoyed working on the much-celebrated Electric Picnic and Bloomsday Festival and has a lifelong interest in classical music.
Ann-Marie Ahearne appointed Education and Community Co-Ordinator
Ann-Marie Ahearne joins as Education and Community Co-Ordinator in October 2026. Her career spans theatre, dance, architecture and visual culture, including producer of Towers and Tales festival at Lismore Castle.
Working with the core team
The new appointees join the festival’s core team:
- Dieter Kaegi - Artistic Director and festival Co-Founder
- Breda O’Brien - Financial Controller
- Tara McKeown - Marketing and Sponsorship
- Shermin Thompson - Box Office and Hospitality
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival returns from 1 to 7 June 2027, bringing opera, concerts and recitals to Lismore and venues across the Blackwater Valley.
Priority booking for Friends of BVOF opens on 21 November 2026, with general ticket sales opening on 16 January 2027.
For festival news and Friends Membership information, visit www.blackwatervalleyopera.ie.
