Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce, today announced the appointment of senior arts executive Mike Harris as the inaugural Executive Director of Sutherland’s Pavilion Performing Arts Centre. Mike will commence the role on September 27, taking the reins from Interim Director Rachel Healy.
Mike Harris is a passionate arts leader with extensive industry experience and a strong track record of success in delivering high-quality programs, establishing strong organisational culture and positive business outcomes.
Mike has been General Manager of the Darwin Entertainment Centre since March 2021 where he led the organisation through the difficult post-pandemic period, designing and implementing a new strategic plan while successfully positioning the venue as Darwin’s home of year-round, high-quality performing arts.
Other previous roles include CEO of West Australian Music, Head of Programming at the Melbourne International Arts Festival and Director of Glen Street Theatre, Sydney.
Mayor Pesce, who also sits on the recently established Board of The Pavilion, said:
“We are delighted to have secured a candidate of such a high calibre to lead Sutherland’s exceptional new performing arts venue. Since January, The Pavilion has established itself as the premier home for performing arts in Sydney’s south, quickly winning the hearts of the local community. From Bangarra Dance Theatre to The Wiggles, from Anh Do to Wil Anderson, The Pavilion presents the best of local, national and international culture to our audiences. Mike will build on the solid foundations Rachel Healy has created to lead The Pavilion into an exciting future.”
Mike Harris said of his appointment:
“I am thrilled to take on the inaugural position of executive director at the Pavilion Performing Arts Centre in Sutherland. The Pavilion is a stunning addition to Sydney’s rich arts and cultural landscape and will be home to events and performances of local national and international acclaim. I look forward to working with Mayor Pesce and the board to ensure the Pavilion gives the people of Sutherland Shire, and beyond, a venue in which they can feel part of, and be proud of.”
The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre is an initiative of Sutherland Shire Council.
