Arts Alive Welcomes New Live Events Programmer

April marks some fresh beginnings for Arts Alive and Flicks in the Sticks, with a new Live Events Programmer, Cerin Mills replacing Sian Kerry as she leaves after 20 years. Originally from the area, Cerin has been familiar with Arts Alive, Shropshire and Herefordshire’s Rural Touring Scheme, since its inception; this includes the wide-ranging live programme of national and international theatre, dance, music, poetry and work for families Arts Alive offers year-round.

Cerin has had an interesting and diverse career which boasts over 25 years of experience within the arts. Her involvement in this sector began in the 1990’s, inspiring young people’s creativity as a Performing Arts Teacher in Shropshire. Following a move northward, Cerin became Edinburgh Council’s Principal Arts and Learning Officer before working her way up to Head of Creativity and Diversity at The Festival and King’s Theatres Edinburgh. In this position she was responsible for all of the learning and engagement work, in particular some trail blazing work on dementia friendly initiatives and relaxed and inclusive performances. She was part of a programming team selecting local, national and international work for three venues and in outreach spaces and unusual places. 

Fortunately for Arts Alive, after 15 years of working in Edinburgh, Cerin returned to her Shropshire roots. Since being back in December 2017, Cerin has been the Arts Development Officer for Shropshire Council, reconnecting with the thriving arts sector across Shropshire. Cerin is a dementia champion for The Alzheimer’s Society and in her spare time runs training in dementia awareness. 

It is the start of a new era for Arts Alive, with an exciting and inspiring season ahead. As part of the Arts Alive 20th Birthday year, Cerin is planning some participatory work linked to Live events, more details to follow …Welcome Cerin!