David Allen is new CEO of Skylight Circus Arts

David Allen

Rochdale-based charity Skylight Circus Arts has appointed David Allen as its new chief executive.

The new CEO, will be responsible for managing operations, freeing up the creative team, led by Skylight’s creative director Martine Bradford, to focus on bringing more shows and workshops to people throughout Rochdale, Greater Manchester and the North West.

Jim Riley, chair of the board and founder of Skylight, said: “David has a wide variety of marketing, development and operations experience gained while working in the music and entertainment industries for many years.

“More recently he’s gained some grassroots arts experience, working as a freelance consultant on several projects in Rochdale.”

David said: “Skylight has done brilliant work over the past 30 years and the team is massively respected by arts organisations not just in Rochdale but around the UK and beyond.

“Skylight was founded on the principles of bringing the joy, physical and emotional benefits of circus to anyone and everyone, regardless of age, background and ability. These principles are just as important now, perhaps more so given the challenges we all currently face. My job is to help make sure we can offer that to as many people as possible.”

Skylight Circus Arts has delighted thousands throughout the North West with their circus shows and workshops over the past 30 years. The team has continued to deliver throughout the pandemic, taking circus activities online.

Skylight’s usual programme is currently adapted due to government guidelines but they continue to run online sessions and encourage anyone interested in participating to get in touch via info@skylightcircusarts.com.