Michael Barker-Caven, Artistic Director of the Civic, has communicated to the board his decision not to seek a renewal of his contract in 2022. Michael’s impact on the Civic and on the arts scene in South Dublin is immeasurable, as he has overseen a massive transformation of the Civic over the past six years into one of the country’s premier and most vibrant arts centres.
That Michael achieved this without ever compromising on the Civic’s unique position in the community of Tallaght is testament to his vision. His legacy will stand proud at the centre of South Dublin for many years to come as the Civic thanks him for his patience, his ambition, and his direction, and looks forward to a new chapter.
Commenting on his decision, Michael Barker-Caven said:
“Leading the Civic through this period of sustained transformation has been an honour. I will leave confident that the dynamic showcasing of new and emerging artistic talent, the championing of local artists, the diversification of programming, and in particular the establishment of ground-breaking youth programmes such as Ready Steady Show, will continue to reap benefits for artists and audience alike in the years ahead. I offer my gratitude to Chairman Peter Kavanagh, the board of the Civic, the staff, the leadership at SDCC and the Arts Council, for the immense support I have received over the past six years.”
