Opera Santa Barbara (OSB) has appointed Grayson Allred as its new Director of Production, effective July 2026, 2026.

Allred joins OSB from the historic Paramount Theatre in Abilene, Texas, where he spent the last four years as Director of Operations & Programming, having previously served seven years at the same institution as Technical Director.

“I was drawn to Opera Santa Barbara because of its combination of artistic ambition and a clear commitment to excellence on stage,” Allred said per an official press releasse. “I look forward to building on that foundation by supporting the company’s continued growth through strong production leadership, and contributing to a team that brings meaningful art and culture to the community.”

Allred succeeds Helena Kuukka, who has served as Director of Production and Resident Lighting Designer since 2022.

“As I step away from my position at OSB, I do so with the highest level of confidence in my successor,” added Kuukka. “He has impressed us all with his warm personality, insightful questions, and careful consideration of the company as a whole. He will be a huge asset to Team OSB.”