July 15^th, 2019

Tracey Dares-MacNeil has resigned from the position of Executive Director of Strathspey Performing Arts Centre, a role she has held since 2014. 

During her time at Strathspey, MacNeil has significantly improved youth programming, created and collaborated on successful productions, and led the organization through significant challenges. An acclaimed musician in her own right, MacNeil will be teaching a curriculum-based music program called Music for Young Children, an international program taught by fully accredited and certified instructors. With a stellar career as a piano accompanist, having accompanied some of the finest Cape Breton musicians to reach international acclaim, MacNeil has also decided to teach Cape Breton Piano Accompaniment to a select number of students.

“My time at Strathspey has been a very educational one,” says MacNeil. “There have been many challenges, but we enjoyed many successes and learned from our failures, which all contribute to making the work so rewarding. I have had the support of an active and engaged board which has helped me immensely in my role.” 

The Board of Directors at Strathspey is grateful to have had Tracey at the helm for so many years and wishes her every success in her new role. 

More change comes with the recent resignation of Board Chair, Robert Woodley as well the end of two consecutive terms for Board Secretary Judy Watts. Both Rob and Judy were committed members to the Board whose contributions will be missed greatly. Their departure, along with MacNeil’s, signals a time of transition and planning for SPAC.

“Changes at both the board and operational levels of Strathspey Performing Arts Centre have led to many discussions regarding the future of the organization,” says Camille MacDonnell, Interim Chair. “Although we are saddened by the loss of strong team members who have contributed greatly to the organization, we also recognize that it provides an opportunity to realign priorities, restructure roles, and plan for the future.”

A call for new board members will be going out in the near future with hopes of attracting members who can help to shape the vision of the organization. 

Strathspey Performing Arts Centre is currently in its second season of the Currents Summer Series and has a strong line-up of performances into the fall. For the full schedule of performances and to purchase tickets, visit tickets.strathspeyplace.com or phone the box office at 902-945-5300. 

For further information on joining the Board of Directors or any general inquiries, please contact Katie MacLennan at marketing@strathspeyplace.com.