Opera members advise: fire the Campbells

Around 200 San Diego Opera members — considered a good turnout — gave advisory votes this morning (April 28) to: (1) Fire Ian Campbell, general director, and Ann Spira Campbell, his ex-wife and second in command. They are both now on paid leave; (2) Dispose of no assets except in the ordinary course of business; (3) Rescind the board's vote of March 19 to disband the opera. The final vote on these recommendations will have to come from the board.

Clearly, the consensus of the members (those who have given at least $100) is to continue the operation of San Diego Opera.

The now-reduced board met after the members' meeting. The board discussed plans for the 2015 and 2016 seasons and how to cut costs.

There was also talk of the need for more fundraising, but according to my initial source, there was no figure given of how much money has been given in the past several days. (Last night I reported that there was at least one pledge of $100,000, but only if the Campbells are gone.)

One possible fundraising roadblock is that the insider group, including the Dow Divas, will not be giving, since they have resigned from the board. However, one source says this group has cut down its giving in the past couple of years. The board made no further moves on what to do about the Campbells.

I have picked up word that staff members are willing to take a 10 percent pay cut. However, I have received no confirmation of that.