Oregon Public Broadcasting

Three senior leaders at Medford’s Rogue Opera resigned this week, citing "irreconcilable differences" with the board.

The personality dispute threatens one of southern Oregon’s key arts organizations.

Ethan Lindsey reports.

Lorrie Hall, the group’s executive director, stepped down, along with the artistic director, Willene Gunn.

In solidarity, David MacKenzie, of the New Bedford Symphony in Massachusetts, resigned his residency at the Rogue Opera.

Hall said she loved the 8 years she’s spent volunteering for the opera – but said her differences with the board of directors were over personnel issues.

Board president Tom Grimland says Hall asked the board to make some decisions – and the board said no.

Tom Grimland: “Lorrie Hall and Willene Gunn made enormous contributions to Rogue Opera. I think for all of us on the board, I think the sense now is one of huge loss – and yet, inevitable loss.”

Both sides agree the fight was over personality and management – not artistic or financial reasons.