BAC’s Micklem steps down

Battersea Arts Centre (BAC) has announced that David Micklem will step down as Joint Artistic Director of the acclaimed south London venue next month. Micklem joined the BAC in 2008 in order to work alongside David Jubb to help the organisation deliver its ambitious growth plans. Jubb will remain at the venue renowned for its innovative programming and pioneering artistic work as sole Artistic Director and CEO. In a press statement released today, the BAC’s Board referred to its major project to redevelop the historic building into a 21st century performance environment, saying it was continuing its process to look at the structure of the organisation and would “look to a new leadership model that best services the project working structure and the primary focuses for the organisation over the next three years – supporting artists to create great theatre, our capital project, fundraising and maximising the potential of our building.” Micklem, who came to the BAC following six years as Theatre Strategy Officer at Arts Council England, described himself as being “enormously proud” of what he had achieved during his five years at the venue”, adding: “I am excited by what the future holds for BAC, in terms of the renewal and restoration of the old Town Hall, for the continuing evolution of a truly 21st century arts organisation, and for the great art that it will continue to generate. I leave with great confidence in David Jubb’s vision for the years ahead and hope to remain closely connected as those plans unfold.” Jubb praised Micklem for his work at the venue, saying: “BAC owes David a huge debt of thanks for his transformative and passionate contribution to the organisation and the way we now think about the future of theatre.” In today’s press statement, Micklem said he would be taking some time off before exploring other leadership roles in the arts.