Liz is Leaving PANDA
News from Liz O’Neill...
After 6 ½ years setting up and running PANDA the time has come for me to move on (I’m writing this with a bit of a lump in my throat, it’s true). What started as a 10 month freelance contract for 2 days a week turned into a way of life – a way of life I am extremely proud of. PANDA has become an integral part of Manchester’s arts scene and a serious contributor to the growth of the independent performing arts sector in the region. With PANDA firmly established in the infrastructure and with a funded stable future ahead, the time has come for me to move on to a new challenge.
And that challenge is going to be just down the road at Zion Arts Centre, where I have just been appointed as Chief Executive. I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to breathe new life into such a fantastic venue. As well as developing its role as a creative centre for young people, my intention is for it to become a creative space for artists. My door will well and truly be open, so this isn’t the end of a beautiful relationship but more like the start of a whole new adventure together.
In the meantime, I have to thank each and every PANDA member and partner. By being pro-active, generous, supportive and open, you are the main reason for PANDA’s success. PANDA feels like a real community, a family of artists and arts-lovers who support and nurture each other, so my heartfelt thanks and good wishes go to you all. I’m sure we’ll be working together again in new and exciting ways in the not so distant future.
Until then, I’m still here, providing the same PANDA service until 8th May, so as ever – get in touch for any of your performing arts needs!
Liz