Oztix | News | New General Manager Announced For St Kilda's Iconic Palais Theatre

Live Nation Australia has announced the appointment of Neil Cox as the new general manager for St Kilda's iconic Palais Theatre.

Cox will make the move from Christchurch in New Zealand, where he served as general manager and chief executive of the Isaac Theatre Royal since 2008, while he also has 30 years experience in live and recorded music.

“Neil Cox has extensive experience and incredibly strong relationships within venues, promoters and producers across the Australasian industry which will give him a flying start when he takes the reigns at Melbourne’s beloved and iconic Palais Theatre," Live Nation Australia CEO, Roger Field, said.

Meanwhile, Cox said of the appointment, “The past 10 years at the Isaac Theatre Royal has been extremely varied, massively challenging but ultimately very rewarding.

"Moving from one iconic venue in New Zealand to an equally iconic and historic venue in Melbourne is a challenge that I relish. By bringing my vast experience to the role, I hope to ensure that the Palais continues to be one of Melbourne’s premier live entertainment venues providing an unforgettable experience for all that walk through the doors."

The news coincides with the announcement of the recipients for the inaugural Palais Theatre Community Fund.

Established to provide long-term benefits for the St Kilda and City Of Port Phillip community, over ten local registered or not-for-profit charities will receive grants of up to $5,000, including Artists for Kids’ Culture, Elwood St Kilda Neighbourhood Learning Centre and Rawcus Theatre Company Inc.

“We received an overwhelming number of quality applications in our inaugural funding round and we are beyond excited to be awarding a number of initiatives that will provide long-term benefits to our thriving local community," Palais Theatre's Bookings & Marketing Manager, Erin McMahon, said.

"We look forward to working with these organisations and watching their projects develop in the coming months.”

The second round of applications will open this month; see a list of the inaugural recipients below.