THE chairman of the Beacon who was awarded an OBE in last month has told of his delight at the arts centre's turnaround as he celebrates five years in the role.

Greenock Telegraph: Alex Reedijk

Alex Reedijk was recognised by the King for his 36 years service to the performing arts in Scotland.

The New Zealander is also the longest serving general director of Scottish Opera and was headhunted by Inverclyde Council in 2019 to help bring stability to the Beacon.

After a turbulent first few years after opening in 2013, the local authority had to step in to shore it up financially and was looking for a figurehead to steady the ship.

Since then the Beacon has enjoyed a massive turnaround in fortunes and Alex was over the moon to recently open Scottish Opera's new Highlights tour in Greenock.

Proud Alex said: "I am really, really pleased that we have brought some stability to the Beacon. When I took over there was a period of transition and I have been made to feel so welcome.

"I love coming here, and I have said it before, but it is second only to the Sydney Opera House for views. It is stunning.

"I am glad I have been able to help and play a part in its success. I feel that we are bedded into the community and that is the most important thing.

"We have had a wonderful five years and the Beacon has gone from strength to strength. There is such a passion here for the theatre and I am passionate about the importance of regional theatres."

During his time at the Beacon, the arts centre has worked closely with Scottish Opera as Alex brought both together.

Under his stewardship Scottish Opera also has an important education programme working in Inverclyde schools.

Greenock Telegraph: Alex Reedijk

Earlier this month, Scottish Opera opened its Spring Highlights at the Beacon with a wonderfully rich performance directed by Laura Attridge.

Music director James Longford led a cast of emerging and associate artists - soprano Inna Husieva, mezzo-soprano Lea Shaw, tenor Shengzhi ~Ren and the unforgettable baritone Ross Cumming.

There were scene stealing moments as they made their way through the drama to the works of Verdi, Handel, Mozart, Gounod - and composer Tony Hessions' In Flagrante had its second outing.

Greenock Telegraph: Alex Reedijk

Alex said: "It means so much to me as general director of Scottish Opera to come to the Beacon where I am chairman. We have the most amazing partnerships at the Beacon."

Greenock Telegraph: Alex Reedijk

The chairman was very proud to be awarded an OBE in recognition of his work which has included bringing opera to more than 250,000 children across Scotland.

He to take on his role with Scottish Opera having previously enjoyed an international career with festivals and opera companies globally.

As well as his work with Scottish Opera and the Beacon, Alex spent ten years as a trustee and vice chairman of Citizens Theatre in Glasgow.

The married dad-of-two said: "I have been so lucky to have been part of the rich cultural life in Scotland over the past 35 years."

Beacon co-directors Karen Townsend and Lesley Davidson said: “Everyone at the Beacon sends their heartfelt congratulations to Alex. His OBE recognises his significant contribution to the arts in Scotland and we are proud to have him work with us as our chair.

“Alex is a highly experienced and renowned arts leader, but is always a kind, helpful and intelligent friend to all at the Beacon.

"We are particularly proud of the development of a diverse programme of touring shows and in-house youth theatre groups, community outreach, and classes and workshops in music, art and drama that our partnership has helped to develop over the past five years.”