New creative director takes centre stage

Simon’s new role will be central to the MAC’s vision and aspirations regionally and internationally. He will work with the best artists, performers and production companies from around the world in helping them to show their work at the venue.

Over the past four years since its inception, the MAC has already established a strong reputation for staging top artistic attractions from its novel retrospective of the work of Andy Warhol to hosting its own international art prize and staging a variety of theatre from experiemental Beckett to top notch musicals such as Cabaret. It’s forthcoming exhibition of work by the esteemed painter David Hockney is another major coup for the local arts scene.

Simon’s remit will be to expand upon this reputation so that the MAC can continue as a dynamic hub for cultural and artistic excellence, aiming to bring big name artists and performers to the city and allowing audiences to experience the best of local and international creativity.

Welcoming the new appointment, chief executive of the MAC, Anne McReynolds said:“We are delighted that Simon Magill will be taking up the post of creative director at the MAC. Already a major figure in the arts scene, Simon is an inspirational and widely respected figure who has been a committed champion of Northern Ireland’s creativity through his many roles with the Waterfront, Tinderbox, co-founder of Prime Cut Productions and the Lyric. His appointment offers an exciting new direction for the MAC and its audiences who have already enjoyed what we have staged to date.

“Simon’s passion for the MAC and vision for its future made him stand out as the perfect candidate.”

“I’m thrilled and flattered that the board has shown confidence in my vision,” adds Simon. “The MAC is a versatile creative space and in a short period of time has established itself within the local, national and international arts scene. With its vast spectrum of performances, exhibitions and educational programmes, I look forward to working with the team to enhance the organisation’s existing achievements. I hope to expand upon the creative development approach, introducing new initiatives that cultivate the passion and endeavour of local artists while bringing the best to our stages and galleries.”