Newport Live, the charity that delivers theatre, arts, sports, leisure, community and cultural services across the City of Newport has appointed Sharon Casey as the new Head of Theatre, Arts and Culture. 

This important role is responsible for leading the arts programme for The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre as well as a wider cultural offer across Newport and the surrounding area. 

The Riverfront, which is part of Newport Live, is already well-known for staging a programme of high-quality performances, screenings and workshops throughout the year and works to support the professional development of artists living and working in Wales. The organisation’s Arts Development team provides creative opportunities for people of all ages co-ordinating many different arts projects, events, activities and workshops across the city and beyond.  

Sharon has been working for over 20 years in the arts, having previously held roles at Carmarthenshire Theatres, Blackwood Miners’ Institute, and the Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury. She also served as a board member of Jones the Dance. Living in Pontypool, Sharon has close ties to Newport, where she previously resided, making it wonderful for her to reconnect with the area. Her expertise lies in creative programming and ensuring the arts are available to all. 

Andrea Ovey, Director of Business Development at Newport Live said "The Riverfront is a remarkable theatre and arts centre dedicated to inspiring people to be happier and healthier by connecting audiences and communities through the arts.  

There is a spotlight on the Riverfront during many of our events including the annual Pantomime, as well as the Big Splash, International Womens Day, Black Lives 365 and Lunar New Year Celebrations On a daily basis the work developed independently and in partnership has a hugely positive impact on our communities.

I am delighted to have appointed Sharon to this role; with her wealth of experience, I am excited to see the future unfold as Sharon takes up her new post, leading the Riverfront forward and continuing to shine a light on the rich arts and culture programmes and further develop the opportunities the fantastic team have created."

Sharon Casey said, “I’m absolutely delighted to join the team at Newport Live.  The Riverfront Theatre is a vibrant hub where arts and creativity help bring joy and happiness to people’s lives.  I deeply believe that the arts are for everyone, and I’m excited to contribute my skills and passion, and to be part of such a fantastic and committed team who are shaping the future of arts and culture in Newport.” 

To find out more about The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre visit www.newportlive.co.uk/riverfront  or follow The Riverfront on social media at @TheRiverfront on Facebook or @RiverfrontArts on Twitter and Instagram. 

Newport Live is a non-profit distribution organisation and charity which delivers fun, inclusive and accessible arts and sports programmes in our community for children, families, schools, sports clubs and local groups across the city. You can find out more about how you can support The Riverfront and Newport Live here: www.newportlive.co.uk/support-us/