Michael Noon (June 20, 1937 – January 23, 2019) was a tireless champion and supporter of the arts across Canada for more than four decades. Born in Nelson, Lancashire, England, his love of the arts began early on: Michael studied architecture with a focus on theatre design at Manchester University and graduated with honours in 1966. He immigrated to Canada that same year and settled in Toronto, initially working for the architect Raymond Moriyama and several post-secondary institutions. He then served as Executive Director, Cultural Affairs for the Ontario Ministry of Culture and Recreation and, in 1985, was appointed General Manager of The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Toronto’s major civic cultural centre.

An invitation in 1994 to oversee the construction and management of the new Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at UBC brought him to Vancouver, which became his home. As an architect and professional theatre planner, Michael worked closely with Bing Thom as well as the master acousticians and theatre design specialists during all phases of construction of the new facility. He also hired dozens of ushers, box-office agents, marketing staff, and a technical crew. Several of his earliest hires remain on staff to this day, including Joyce Hinton and Cameron McGill, now co-managing directors.

Michael was also a strong believer in the Chan’s mandate to serve both the UBC and larger Vancouver communities. He nurtured strong relationships with the Vancouver arts community, and was instrumental in directing the use of the Chan Endowment Fund, which to this day brings brilliant and diverse performances to the Chan’s stages through the Chan Presents series and other arts organizations. He also turned to his many contacts in the international arts community to present prestigious artists and build the Chan’s reputation around the world.

He was a passionate and visionary leader in the early stages of the Chan Centre, a beloved colleague and “boss”, a dedicated patron, and a kind and thoughtful friend. Michael attended every performance during his tenure, and under his leadership, the Chan became known as one of North America’s finest cultural facilities. Michael retired as the Chan’s founding Managing Director in 2002.

Throughout his rich life, Michael shared his extensive knowledge with countless individuals and cultural organizations across Canada. He was a beloved mentor to many and a respected colleague to all who had the pleasure of working with him. He served on the boards of numerous organizations, including the National Ballet School, the Scotiabank Dance Centre, Festival Vancouver Society, Vancouver Civic Theatres, Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre and the B.C. Entertainment Hall of Fame. He held the position of Chair of Vancouver’s Alliance for Arts and Culture. He has also been a member of the International Society for the Performing Arts and the Canadian Association of Arts Presenters.

Michael was inducted into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2018 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to BC’s entertainment industry.

In honour of Michael’s dedication to the performing arts, the Chan Centre, along with Michael’s friends and family, have created the Michael Noon Memorial Fund. Your gift will pay tribute to Michael’s life and career by supporting student awards in the performing arts at UBC.