Eve Nicol aims to enhance local arts and support emerging talent at Aberdeen Arts Centre.
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As the newly appointed Programming and Creative Director of the Aberdeen Arts Centre, Eve Nicol is embarking on a transformative journey to enhance the local arts scene. With a focus on community engagement and support for emerging artists, Nicol is keen on making the centre a hub of creativity and innovation.
Embracing community connections
Nicol emphasizes the importance of understanding the community’s relationship with the Arts Centre. She stated, “I’m very much in learning mode, seeing what’s working.” This approach reflects her commitment to maintaining the essence of the centre while introducing fresh ideas.
Recognizing the deep-rooted connections many have with the venue, she expressed her admiration: “It’s glorious. It’s like, that’s their stage. I love that.” Nicol also highlighted the invaluable role of volunteers, who will soon be more visible thanks to new uniforms, enhancing their presence and engagement.
Supporting local talent
One of Nicol’s primary goals is to professionalize the Arts Centre, creating more opportunities for local performing companies and artists. She pointed out the lack of avenues for early-career actors and playwrights, stating, “There aren’t many avenues, close to zero, for actors or playwrights early in their careers.” By fostering locally-made productions and providing rehearsal space, Nicol aims to keep talent within the region, reducing the need for artists to migrate to larger cities.
Revitalizing the Arts Centre
Since taking on her role, Nicol has been part of a significant revitalization effort at the Arts Centre, which has seen several new appointments, including a communications advisor and a hospitality manager. This fresh energy is crucial for the centre’s growth, as Nicol noted, “There’s so much energy to get things happening.” With a focus on improving visitor experiences, she aims to increase foot traffic, not just for performances but for casual visits to exhibitions and workshops.
Building a creative community
To further enhance the creative learning program, Nicol is dedicated to building a pool of freelance facilitators. This initiative is essential for running workshops and projects effectively, ensuring that classes are not canceled due to staffing shortages. She is particularly enthusiastic about collaborating with young professionals and early-career artists, providing them with the space and resources needed to thrive. “There’s so much creativity and energy in Aberdeen that I think, unfairly, the rest of Scotland doesn’t give it enough credit for,” she remarked.
Future aspirations
Nicol’s ambitions extend beyond the main auditorium. She is focused on revitalizing the adjacent Children’s Theatre, aiming to transform it into a functioning studio space. This initiative would provide a much-needed venue for intimate performances, allowing local artists to showcase their work without the constraints of larger venues. Nicol’s hands-on approach and DIY spirit are evident in her plans, as she seeks to create a vibrant atmosphere for creativity and collaboration.
In conclusion, Eve Nicol’s leadership at the Aberdeen Arts Centre marks a new chapter for the venue, with a clear vision for enhancing community engagement, supporting local talent, and revitalizing the arts scene. Her commitment to fostering a creative environment promises to make the Arts Centre a cornerstone of cultural activity in Aberdeen.
