Skipper to retire from Northern Ballet after 35 years

ONE OF the leading lights of Northern Ballet is to retire this summer after 35 years with the company.

Mark Skipper will retire as chief executive on September 30.

A spokesman for the Leedsbased organisation said he “will go with our utmost gratitude for a job very well done and with our huge appreciation of everything he has achieved for Northern Ballet”.

Mr Skipper joined Northern Ballet, then called Northern Ballet Theatre, in November 1987 as Deputy Stage Manager and rose through the ranks.

He was appointed Chief Executive in May 1996 and achieved 25 years in that role in May last year. In 2006 he was awarded the Manager of the Year Award by the Theatrical Management Association, now known as UK Theatre.

In 2010 he was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire for his contribution to the county in a voluntary capacity.

During his tenure he has worked closely and successfully with three Artistic Directors – Christopher Gable (1987-1999), Stefano Giannetti (1999-2000) and David Nixon OBE (20012022). These partnerships have taken Northern Ballet to its current position as one of the small number of internationally-renowned ballet companies based in the United Kingdom.

Sir David Wootton, Chair of Northern Ballet, said: “Mark’s tireless efforts to ensure a lean and efficient organisation which always delivers at the highest level have seen Northern Ballet recognised as one of the best managed arts companies, with a strong executive team well equipped to meet the challenges that lie ahead.”

Mr Skipper said: “Northern Ballet has been a huge part of my life and it will be sad to step down but I am happy that the company is left in good shape.”