The Nelson Arts Festival team is up to full strength in readiness for what is predicted to be its biggest year ever, as Rugby World Cup 2011 and the South Island Masters Games visitors swell audience numbers.

Producer of the Arts Festival Sophie Kelly has taken over the programming of the festival shows, after the resignation of long serving Festival Director Anabel Norman. Ms Kelly said she is very excited about her new role.

“Having managed the festival for Nelson City Council for the last two years, I am really excited to be working on the selection of shows that will appeal to our audiences,” she said. “Annabel has developed strong connections in the theatre and music worlds and a festival that really is unique in its community events. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside and learn from her.”

Newcomer to the festival team, Charlie Unwin, has the role of Programme Coordinator, working with the artists and liaising with the contracted technical crew. Charlie has a strong background in theatre and arts administration, coming to Nelson from The Edge, based at Auckland’s Aotea Centre. He also has his own company, SmackBang Theatre Co.

The Nelson Arts Festival this year runs for an extended season, as it is part of the RWC 2011 Game On Festival. It kicks off with the Nelson Masked Parade, which has the theme Playful Pacific. Ms Kelly said the programme showcased New Zealand talent for international visitors, while still bringing some offshore shows to Nelson.

“We have a great programme that includes some very New Zealand theatre such as the rugby classic C’mon Black and a new hit from the Wanaka festival, the story of artist Rita Angus and composer Douglas Lilburn, performed by Jennifer Ward-Lealand and Michael Houstoun,” she said. “That’s all I’m saying just now but the full programme will be launched in early August. People can visit our website to go on the mailing list for our e-newsletter updates.”

The Nelson Arts Festival is produced by the Nelson City Council as a celebration for locals and an added attraction for visitors. More information at www.nelsonartsfestival.co.nz

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