Phil Douglas has been appointed Interim Artistic Director of Dance City. Phil is acting up from his role as Creative Producer following the departure of former Artistic Director and Joint CEO, Anthony Baker on 16 August 2019.

Anthony says, “After almost 10 extremely exciting years at Dance City I have decided to open a new chapter in my life. I have had an amazing time supporting the development of dance in the north east alongside an incredible team who I know will go on to achieve fantastic results. I look forward to working in the cultural sector on a variety of new projects and contexts. I’d like to pass on my huge thanks to everyone who has been part of the Dance City journey these past almost 10 years and I wish the organisation every success for the future.”

Phil Douglas is expected to retain the role of Interim Artistic Director for at least 9 months, before a permanent recruitment is instigated. During this period Dance City will undertake a 360 degree organisational review with the involvement of all staff. The intention is to ensure that the leadership structure of Dance City is robust and agile and that policies and procedures represent best practice so Dance City can continue in its role as a leader in the North East cultural and wider dance sectors.

Phil has worked in the Arts and Culture sector across the North East since 2007, specialising in Dance Development, Outdoor Arts and Queer Arts sectors, including producing the award winning Curious Arts Festival.

Phil says, “I am looking forward to leading Dance City through an exciting phase of organisational development and sector stimulation. Our purpose is to change lives through dance. Our vision is that people live happier, more fulfilled and healthier lives because of Dance City. To achieve these ambitions we proactively welcome and encourage everybody to engage with dance by delivering high quality professional performances, dance classes, community engagement, employment-focused vocational training, and tailored support for professional dance artists in the region.

Dance City’s work with professional dance artists and the creative community is vital to the growth of the dance ecology of the north east and I have already embarked on a regional artistic consultation to find out how we can improve and extend our portfolio of professional support. My ethos is very much that I want to work closely and collaboratively with staff, artists, audiences and stakeholders to ensure Dance City’s work is high quality, accessible, informed by and representative of the communities it serves. We have much to celebrate and look forward to.”