By Lindsey Kin
On Friday, 25 March, I attended
The South African Ballet Theatre (SABT) media briefing, held at the Joburg Theatre’s Brickhill Room in Braamfontein, where The SABT introduced its newly appointed Managing Director, Trish Downing, to members of the media. Downing took over as MD from Fiona Budd, effective 1 March.
James Campbell, Vice Chairman of The SABT Board, opened the briefing, stating what an exciting time it is right now for the art form. “We, as a company, are very excited. Now is a great time to be pushing the art of ballet, especially with the hype around the
Oscars that have passed, as well as with the premier of
Black Swan, so we’re in a very fortunate position at the moment.” Campbell feels it is now time for ballet to be seen as a prestigious South African sport, comparing it to the likes of rugby, cricket and soccer, together with its affiliate sponsorships.
Commenting on the appointment, former MD, Fiona Budd, said: “I am honoured and proud to have been part of this South African professional ballet company that has burgeoned and prospered, and celebrates a milestone 10
th birthday this year.” In particular, Budd thanked her Co-Director, Iain MacDonald, for being a constant source of support and inspiration. “MacDonald is both an artist and artistic director of the highest order,” added Budd. She salutes her successor, Trish Downing as a talented and highly respected member of the local arts and business community.
“It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to Budd who, over the past ten years has played a lead role in guaranteeing the continuous success of SABT. We welcome Downing and look forward to her joining the family and continuing the quality, glamour, escapism and magic that is SABT,” said MacDonald.
Downing, who is also a Trustee of the Arts & Culture Trust, holds ATCL and LTCL Speech & Drama Teachers Diplomas from Trinity College of Music, London, and is a CPR (Certified PR Practitioner) and APR (Accredited Public Relations Practitioner), sees her new appointment as MD to SABT as the perfect marriage of her performing arts and business backgrounds.
Downing began her career as an actress, playing lead roles in various stage, film and TV productions, before moving onto a career in communication and marketing with a number of South Africa’s blue chip organisations. It was here that she developed her love for challenges and the stimulation of big business.
This year, SABT celebrates its 10
th birthday on a high-note, beginning with a tour to the Free State, where the company will present the two-act ballet, The Nutcracker, opening at the Sand du Plessis Theatre in Bloemfontein on 9 March. For the full programme of what to expect from the country’s largest professional ballet company, visit
Media Update.
Image caption (insert):
The South African Ballet Theatre (SABT) is pleased to annouce that Trish Downing has been appointed as the Company’s new Managing Director (MD) with effect 1 March.