Creative New Zealand Chair to take opera post

Dramatic Online, 14 February 2007,New Zealand

The Chair of Creative New Zealand will depart the national arts body to take the lead at a new opera company. Wellington City Council Deputy Mayor Alick Shaw will take over as Acting Chair of Creative New Zealand’s Arts Council, after Christopher Doig announced he was stepping down. Chair since May last year after a long career as a professional opera singer, Doig leaves to take up a position as Executive Chairperson of a new opera company for Christchurch and the South Island. “Much as I have enjoyed my short tenure with Creative New Zealand,” he said, “the inevitable conflict of interest has forced me, with regret, to tender my resignation as Chairperson of the Arts Council in order not to compromise its integrity, my own personal and professional integrity, and the future prospects of this new company.” Shaw paid tribute to Doig, in an amicable parting. “Chris’s life passion is opera and this is a unique opportunity which matches with his unique set of skills,” said the new Acting Chair. “On behalf of Creative New Zealand, I would like to thank Chris for the work he has done, and for his commitment to the arts over so many years.” Creative New Zealand Chief Executive, Stephen Wainwright, welcomed Shaw into the temporary role, which he will retain until a new appointment is made by Prime Minister and Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Helen Clark. “I am confident that with Alick's knowledge of Creative New Zealand and the arts sector, he will provide the necessary leadership as we develop and implement our new Strategic Plan in 2007,” Wainwright said. For more information, CLICK HERE

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