Nicky Chance-Thompson DL, the Chief Executive of The Piece Hall Trust has been honoured in the inaugural Birthday Honours List of King Charles III, receiving an MBE for her exceptional contributions to culture, heritage, and regeneration in Calderdale and the wider region.
Since taking the reins of The Piece Hall in 2017, Nicky has overseen its remarkable transformation into a world-class visitor attraction. Her journey with The Piece Hall Trust began in 2015 when she joined as a Trustee, and her dedicated leadership has played an integral role in the site’s success.
Speaking about Nicky’s achievements, Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL, Chair of The Piece Hall’s Board of Trustees, expressed his unwavering confidence in her impact over the past five years. He credited her leadership as the driving force behind The Piece Hall’s current stature, hailing it as a unique heritage asset that has gained recognition as a premier music venue. The venue’s Live at series, which features top-tier rock and pop artists, has sold over 120,000 tickets this year alone. Furthermore, The Piece Hall has emerged as a cultural gem, contributing an average of £10.2 million annually to Calderdale’s economy since its reopening in 2017.
While acknowledging the impressive numbers, Sir Roger emphasised the importance of Nicky’s efforts in fostering relationships with community organisations and partners. Her unwavering dedication has cultivated a sense of community, providing a safe and welcoming space where people can gather, celebrate, shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment with their loved ones.
The achievements under Nicky’s leadership extend beyond the cultural realm. She spearheaded the development of an outstanding arts, culture, and community events program, leading The Piece Hall to attract over 2 million visitors annually. Additionally, Nicky successfully guided the business through the challenges of the global pandemic, securing the long-term sustainability of this invaluable asset.
The announcement of Nicky’s MBE coincides with the commencement of The Piece Hall’s most extensive summer season to date. Nearly 30 nights of live music are scheduled, featuring renowned artists such as Sting, The Jacksons, George Ezra, and boygenius. The summer program also includes community events like Calderdale Pride and Mela, further showcasing The Piece Hall’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
Nicky Chance-Thompson’s well-deserved recognition in the Birthday Honours List serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. Her significant contributions to culture, heritage, and regeneration have elevated The Piece Hall’s standing as a world-class destination, leaving an indelible mark on Calderdale and the wider region.
