The National Arts Centre (NAC) has announced the appointment of Annabelle Cloutier as the new president and CEO, making her the first francophone woman to hold these positions. Cloutier, who has been part of the NAC since 2018, previously served as the executive strategy and communications director and corporate secretary to the board. Notably, she played a role in the NAC’s 50th-anniversary celebrations and the establishment of its Indigenous theatre. Prior to her tenure at the NAC, Cloutier held positions in the governor general’s office and various francophone cultural organizations, including the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française.
Former president and CEO Christopher Deacon recently retired, paving the way for Cloutier to assume the leadership role. Guy Pratte, the chair of the NAC board of trustees and head of the selection committee, expressed confidence in Cloutier’s abilities, describing her as an essential arts leader for Canada, bringing vision and energy to the esteemed cultural institution.
Cloutier expressed her commitment to engaging with artists and arts leaders nationwide, connecting with audiences, and supporting the NAC team to uphold the significance of performing arts in Canadian culture. She emphasized the importance of preserving the performing arts as a vibrant and integral aspect of Canadian identity under her leadership.