Buxton Opera House has announced that Olivier and Evening Standard Award-winning actress Janie Dee has been appointed as its new patron.
Dee, who previously starred at the venue in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music in 2021, joins Lady Jasmine Cavendish, who has supported the theatre in the role for more than a decade.
Her connection to Buxton Opera House began through the Buxton International Festival, before deepening with her appearance in the acclaimed co-production directed by Paul Kerryson.
Janie Dee said, “My connection to Buxton began with a knowledge of the Buxton International Festival. Then Paul Kerryson, who I had worked with on Hello, Dolly! at Curve, Leicester, invited me to play Desiree Armfeldt in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music at the Opera House. What I hadn’t bargained for was that I would fall totally in love with the theatre and the place, the people, and the work I saw going on there. I’m now delighted to become a Patron of this beautiful and historic theatre.”
Dee’s extensive career spans work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe, alongside collaborations with leading playwrights including Alan Ayckbourn and Harold Pinter.
Her musical theatre credits include Follies, Carousel and Old Friends, while her screen work includes Official Secrets, Chimerica and Crashing.
Paul Kerryson, CEO of Buxton Opera House, said, “It has been my privilege to direct Janie as Anna in The King and I, Dolly Levi in Hello, Dolly! both at Curve, Leicester, and, more recently, Desiree Armfeldt in Sondheim’s A Little Night Music here at Buxton Opera House. Over the years, I have come to know Janie as a true supporter of the arts and the profound effect they have on the community, especially young people. Janie is also an advocate of environmental issues and how we can make the world a safer healthier space.”
He added, “Her appointment marks another wonderful addition to this exciting new chapter for Buxton Opera House as we continue to build inspiring opportunities with and for our audiences, spark creativity, and support lifelong learning, helping people of all ages discover new skills, passions, and confidence. Janie’s love for Buxton Opera House and her wealth of industry experience will undoubtedly help inspire local audiences, participants, and the next generation of theatre-makers.”
Professor Judy Simons, Chair of the Board, said, “We are thrilled that the multi-talented Janie Dee has agreed to become our Patron. Janie is a true star who inspires audiences and supporters of all ages with a love of theatre. It’s a real privilege to welcome her to Buxton Opera House.”
Buxton Opera House continues to build on its legacy as a cultural hub in the High Peak, presenting over 450 performances each year and supporting new and established artists.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
