Silvia van der Heiden becomes interim general director Scapino Ballet Rotterdam
Silvia van der Heiden will become interim general director of Scapino Ballet Rotterdam from 1 November. She succeeds Erik Pals who has been general director at Scapino for the past eight years.
Her appointment coincides with the start of Nanine Linning as the new artistic director, following Ed Wubbe's 32-year leadership. With her years of experience in the media and cultural sector, including as general director-director of the Netherlands Film Festival, Van der Heiden will guide the company through a period of artistic and business renewal.
Silvia van der Heiden
Silvia van der Heiden has broad managerial and strategic experience in the cultural and media sector. She led the Marketing & Communications department at the VPRO for a long time and was general director at the Netherlands Film Festival until this spring. Besides her work, she was a member of the Supervisory Board of Muziekgebouw aan het IJ, board member of Stadsschouwburg Velsen and chairman of Julidans, among other things. She is currently on the board of Kleine Komedie Producties, among others.
Erik Pals bids farewell after more than eight years
Erik Pals, alongside artistic director Ed Wubbe, led the general management at Scapino since 2016. Under their leadership, Scapino experienced successful years with large-scale productions such as TING!, Cathedral and Oscar. Erik managed to steer the company through challenging times, such as the corona pandemic and an impending loss of BIS subsidy, and he was instrumental in strengthening Scapino's position within the Dutch arts system.
Fatimazhra Belhirch, chair of Scapino Ballet Rotterdam's Supervisory Board, expresses her deep appreciation and thanks to Erik Pals for his dedication, leadership and tireless efforts over the past eight years. ‘Under his leadership, Scapino has taken important steps in growth and development, both artistically and organisationally. His vision and commitment have taken the company to the next level, and for this the organisation is extremely grateful to him.’
‘At the same time, we welcome the new interim managing director, who will guide Scapino's transition into a new phase with her energy, strength and expertise. With confidence, the Supervisory Board looks forward to her fresh perspective and determination to lead Scapino towards a successful future.’
Silvia van der Heiden: ‘I have followed Scapino Ballet Rotterdam over the years both as a professional and as an enthusiast. The company has often surprised and moved me with its special and captivating performances. I look forward to contributing to the future of Scapino together with Nanine Linning and strengthening the company's position in the cultural sector.’