Grand Opera House York Appoints New Theatre Director

Grand Opera House York has announced a change in leadership, appointing Allie Long as Theatre Director.

Allie joined ATG Entertainment in 2017 while studying at the University of York, starting in Front of House department before progressing through marketing, operational and management roles across the UK. Allie completed ATG’s Venue Management Graduate Scheme with placements in London, Glasgow and Stockton-on-Tees, before returning to the Grand Opera House York in 2022 as Theatre Manager. This was a pivotal year for the venue, with a successful capital investment into the building, venue rebrand and a relaunch which enabled a new trajectory to bring the best of the West End into York, with shows such as; Six, Dear Evan Hanson, Pretty Woman and Heathers.

After a year leading as Theatre Director at Richmond Theatre, Allie took a year of Maternity when she and her husband had a baby boy in 2025. Allie has now returned home to York to take over the leadership in what will be yet another momentous year for the theatre with the upcoming performances of Prima Facie, Barnum and Death on the Nile. Now back to where her career in live entertainment began, Allie is looking forward being able to lead one of North Yorkshire’s most cherished theatres.

A theatre like the Grand Opera House is more than a venue — it’s a place where careers, like mine, can begin, local talent have a stage to showcase themselves, and stories and theatre craft are shared live on stage.

I’m proud to champion career pathways in the creative industries here in York, and to share a programme that has something for everyone.Allie Long