Don't call him the skinny lady

San Diego Opera today (May 30) named William Mason as artistic advisor. He was general director of Lyric Opera, Chicago's prestigious company, from 1997 to 2011, when he retired.

At the newly restructured San Diego Opera, he will work with the production department on repertoire and casting, while helping the administrative staff find economies and efficiencies, giving guidance in fundraising and governance.

San Diego Opera will begin a search shortly for a new permanent general director.