Our Team.
We are an inclusive organisation led by volunteers, with some professionals engaged to help deliver our charitable mission. Most of our workshops are delivered by our Artistic Director in collaboration with other artists, and all of our work is overseen by an elected board of trustees.
Artistic Director
Jacob ZUalski
All creative output of our company is directed by our founder, Jake Zualski. Jake has lived in Newcastle since 2009, where he studied music at Newcastle University. Since then he has undertaken a broad range of postgraduate study under the mentorship of Dr. Nell Drew in Edinburgh and been in the production team for 10 + operas at Edinburgh Fringe Festival with Aria Alba Opera for all and VoiceArc.
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Jake is responsible for delivering projects which are dynamic and inclusive while still striving for excellence in all endeavours. Beyond the normal role of Artistic Director, he holds the position of Director of Music, Director of Voice and in most cases Theatrical Director.
Conductor
DESMOND LAU
Desmond Lau is a long term contributor to Harlekin Studio Opera, and was headhunted by the company in 2018 to become our conductor.
Desmond trained at Newcastle University, and has been the conductor of Newcastle University Student Orchestra and Choir, as well as Wallsend Community Choir and more.
Charity Trustees
Jake Zualksi
Artistic Director
Holly Zeffertt
Administration
Jamie Whitfield
Chair
Tracy Bell
Safeguarding
Jolanda Grijpstra
Social Media Lead
Susan Baker
Trustee