Feb 24, 2025

Evan Maydaniuk joins Staff Team

Evan Maydaniuk has joined the team at Manitoba Opera and will be leading the fundraising department as director of development. He started in January and is looking forward to connecting with the company’s donors.

“As director of development, I will have the privilege of helping to connect those who love Manitoba Opera with the joy of giving,” says Evan. “Donors keep the art form on the stage and are at the heart of Manitoba Opera. I am looking forward to getting to know the folks who make it possible for opera to thrive here on the Prairies.”

A proud citizen of the Red River Métis nation and a born and raised Winnipegger, Evan graduated with a business administration degree from the University of Winnipeg, where his studies focused on non-profit management. From there, he took the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ fundraising course and then launched his career in the development sector as the stewardship officer for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

He has since earned his CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive professional designation) and gives back by serving as the current president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Manitoba Chapter.

Evan has also held positions as the annual giving manager with the Inuit Art Foundation; development and marketing director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Winnipeg; and most recently, was the director of development for Rainbow Resource Centre.

“Now, I’m living the dream!” says Evan of his position with Manitoba Opera. “My goal has been to work in the arts sector, and I am so happy to be able to use my fundraising and leadership abilities to help bring opera to the stage. It’s a gift to come to work every day.

I may not know that much about the art form yet, but I certainly believe in the power of the arts. The arts tell our stories, make the world a more beautiful place, and build community. And I look forward to learning more about opera from those who love it most, our donors.”

Music is a big part of Evan’s recreational life as well. He plays the great Highland bagpipe and is the Pipe Major of Glenaura Pipes & Drums, leading a community band that focuses on preserving and celebrating Scottish music. Ballet also figures into Evan’s life as well.

“Ballet is my happy place. I’m proud to sit on the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Board. I’ve danced recreationally but leave the real dance to the professionals. My favorite ballets are Don Quixote, Dracula, and The Wizard of Oz,” says Evan.

“My Roman Empire (thinks about daily) is the Eurovision Song Contest. I’m obsessed with it. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s great music. But moreover, the song contest brings people together across borders to celebrate and create unity through music.”