In Memory of Michael Noon

Michael Noon. | Image: Chan Centre for the Performing Arts.

Earlier this year, the arts community lost one of its champions in Michael Noon, who passed away January 23. Michael was best known to many in Vancouver arts and culture circles as the founding managing director of the Chan Centre until his retirement in 2002, as well as for his service on councils and boards including those of Scotiabank Dance Centre, Vancouver Civic Theatres and the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame, into which he was inducted in 2018. Michael also served as chair of the board of the BC Alliance for Arts + Culture, starting in 1999.

It is easy to see Michael’s impact on his beloved community from the many memorials in his honour. In its obituary for Michael, the Chan Centre identifies him as “a tireless champion and supporter of the arts across Canada for more than four decades” and “a passionate and visionary leader.” The Roundhouse, on whose board Michael also served, describes him as “a bright light in the Vancouver arts community” and “a great believer in empowering people to achieve their very best.” You can also find an obituary for Michael at the Globe and Mail, enumerating his countless roles and accomplishments in British Columbia and across Canada.

A celebration of Michael Noon's life will be held on May 31, 2019 at 3 p.m. at the Chan Centre. [Update 05/13/19: Organizers request that attendees please RSVP for planning purposes, which they can do here.] Donations in memoriam may be made to Vancouver Hospice Society: 4615 Granville Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3M1. The BC Alliance extends its deepest condolences to the many affected by this loss.