The third Friday of May is upon us, dear readers, which means it is time to kick back with another interviewing masterclass from Society Diary.
Entering the ring with yours truly this week is Nicky Chance-Thompson, who stewards Georgian cloth hall and events venue the Piece Hall in Halifax.
A member of the Northern Power Women’s Power List and former mayoress of Calderdale, Chance-Thompson answered questions about biscuits, dogs and celebs.
You can read our conversation below.
Does being a Northern Power Woman bring great responsibility?
“We don’t all wear capes, but I do my best to use my superpower to empower other woman.
“It’s so important to inspire and celebrate the next generation of female leaders.”
How does the cut-and-thrust of advertising compare to the charity sector?
“The charity world is definitely a softer and kinder working environment, which I value hugely but my team are also full of drive, and passion. Collaborations and working in partnerships are key to how we operate and I’m blessed to work alongside some absolute powerhouses of creativity.”
As a Londoner, have you become friendlier since moving up north?
“In general northerners may by friendlier, but I’m a South London girl and we’re also incredibly welcoming, family and community are everything. But we also tell it like it is, which they certainly do here in Yorkshire.
“Maybe that’s why I’ve felt so at home here.”
What is the best performance you’ve seen at the Piece Hall?
“It has to be Nile Rodgers, what an absolute legend. I love a good boogie and when it comes to disco he really is the GOAT as well as being the man behind some of the biggest pop records of all time.
“Duran Duran come a close second, it was a pinch we moment seeing this amazing band, who used to be just a poster on my bedroom wall, on stage in my venue. And I have to mention the iconic Miss Grace Jones, who hoola- hooped on stage for more than 10 minutes. Just wow.”
Who’s the most famous person you’ve met?
“It’s hard to say, as we’ve had quite a few global superstars at the Piece Hall over the past few years: Sting, Nile Rodgers, Debbie Harry, Tom Jones.
“But I think it has to be HRH King Charles. He was incredibly complimentary about out work when he visited the Piece Hall in 2018 and I was absolutely blown away to receive an MBE for services to culture and tourism in his very first birthday honours list.
“I’ll treasure the memories of my trip to the palace for ever.”
Did you enjoy being a mayoress?
“Absolutely – it was a real privilege and something I look back on with huge pride. You get a front row seat to the very best of your community, from grassroots volunteers to local heroes making an extraordinary difference every day. It also deepened my connection to Halifax and its people, which is something that continues to shape everything I do now.”
Apart from the hall and famous bank, what’s the best thing about Halifax?
“If we’re talking something physical, the home of trailblazing lesbian Anne Lister, Shibden Hall. Its rich history has brought so much attention to the town and visitors from round world.
“But what I love about Halifax right now is the growing sense of local pride I witness more and more, as this otherwise unremarkable northern market town welcomes some of the biggest rock stars on the planet, to one of the most exciting venues in the UK .”
If you could run another historical landmark, which would you pick?
“Venice is one of my favourite places in the world, so I’m going to say St Mark’s Square. We’re often compared to the stunning Italian piazza, so I think I’m well qualified for the job!”
Cats or dogs?
“I love all animals and have both cats and dogs, but right now my Spanish rescue dog River has my heart. He was incredibly nervous when he first arrived, as he hadn’t had the best start in life and it’s taken a lot of time and patience to bring him round. Worth every second.”
Favourite type of biscuit?
“Anything with quality chocolate on. I have a real sweet tooth and try to keep the office stocked with treats, they never last long!”
