“Donald Ferguson will be the new Executive Director of the Cobequid Arts Council” announced Dennis James, Chair of the Board of Directors.  “We are excited about the experience that Donald brings to the position and look forward to working with him to continue to grow the presence of the Cobequid Arts Council (“CAC”) as manager of the Marigold Cultural Centre and promoter of arts and culture in the Truro and Colchester community” said James.

Donald Ferguson has been in the Arts and Culture business for almost 20 years in Nova Scotia.  He starts with CAC August 26, 2009.

Originally from Cape Breton, Donald was formerly the general manager of the Savoy Theatre in Glace Bay, a role which has brought him to the forefront of Cape Breton's arts and culture sector for ten years.

The Savoy Theatre is the only fully-equipped live theatre venue in Cape Breton Island designed for a wide variety of professional and amateur entertainment. It has an excellent reputation as a premiere cultural entertainment venue.

Mr. Ferguson has extensive experience in arts and culture and was a member of the Culture Sector Team that prepared the report of recommendations that laid the ground work for the Nova Scotia Arts and Culture Partnership Council (NSACPC) that replaced the Nova Scotia Arts Council several years ago. Ferguson was also a board member for the NSACPC for seven years until he resigned last November due to work commitments.

In addition to his management experience, Donald has been involved in many Outdoor festival/events on Cape Breton Island (Rock the Dock, Causeway Celebrations and Ben Eion Fiddle and Folk) and has served on various boards and organizations (Atlantic Presenters Association, Events Cape Breton) where he shared his vision for developing a sustainable arts and culture industry in Cape Breton

Ferguson says he is looking forward to continuing on the success of the Marigold that has been laid out by the previous Executive Director and its Board. “I see the Marigold as a venue where people gather to learn, be entertained and make memories. It’s more than a building… it is a major part of the Truro and Colchester community.”

Contact:

Dennis James – 896-6149

Donald Ferguson – 893-2718