Glyndebourne is in mourning for its caring Lady Mary
mainMary Christie, who made generations of singers feel at ease in the family’s countryhouse opera festival, has died of cancer, aged 83.
The Times newspaper has an obit here.
Mary married George Christie, the founder’s son, when she was just 24 and devoted much of the rest of her life to the opera.
Gus Christie, Executive Chairman, said: ‘My dear mother passed away peacefully at home in the early hours of yesterday morning after a long and courageous battle. She will be remembered, in the words of my late father, as ‘the heartbeat which is at the core of Glyndebourne’s existence’. Her devotion to Glyndebourne, and in particular her love of the gardens, has enriched the lives of so many of us.’
Dame Sarah Connolly writes: ‘Desperately sad news about Lady Mary Christie who died today. I’ve been thinking about her a lot recently and didn’t know she’d been really poorly and not spoken for a while. She has been a source of fun, joy and elegance for all of us at Glyndebourne but more than that she was dearly loved. Thinking of the Christie family.
Dear Mr Christie,
As a Glyndbourne Opera member for many years, I was very sorry to read of the passing of your mother, Lady Mary. My deceased wife and I had met her on a few occasions at the opera house, and found her to be most charming. I offer you and your family my sincere condolences.
Brian Hardy
So sad to hear about the passing of Mary Christie. I had some wonderful times with George and Mary at Glyndebourne in the late 70s and early 80s. They genuinely loved the singers and attended every performance. Mary was always so much fun and extremely kind, as was George. Very happy memories. My love and best wishes to the family.