SUCCESSION star Brian Cox has been announced as the newest patron of Paisley Opera.

The Scottish Emmy award-winning actor said he was “pleased” to be linked with the organisation which aims to break down stereotypes around the art form.

Cox said: “I’m very pleased to be associated with a company whose mission is to make opera accessible to all kinds of people and to break down the old stereotype that it’s just for ‘posh’ people.

“Opera is an amazingly powerful art form which can move people through music and drama irrespective of their background.

“Like Paisley Opera, I believe that great art should be available to anyone who wants to experience it.”  

Paisley Opera, whose motto is “Passion Not Posh!”, was founded in 2017 and brings productions into the heart of the community, performing operas with special Paisley Scots translations.

Its community chorus comprises around 60 people of all ages and walks of life, and they are supported by professional chorus leaders, soloists and a professional orchestra.  

The organisation is currently working on its fifth production - Gounod’s Faust: The Devil Went Down to Paisley - which is due to be performed in October.

Simon Hannigan, artistic director and founder of Paisley Opera said:  “We are thrilled that Brian has agreed to become our patron.

“It’s a huge encouragement to our community chorus and to all the professionals who have worked so hard to make Paisley Opera a vibrant part of the arts scene in Scotland.

“Brian is not just a renowned actor, but someone who really understands how important and life-changing culture and the arts can be for so many people.”