from: Neal Shapiro, President & CEO, WNET.ORG
Today, I got fired.
I should have seen it it coming. After all, I was the one doing the firing.
The truth is, I’ve been wanting to fire myself as host of SundayArts almost since the day I started.
Don’t get me wrong. I am very proud of the program. From the centerpiece performances, to the content we add every Sunday – the news of the week, interviews with key players in the world of visual and performing arts, features about new developments around town, and the curator’s choice that ends every program – it’s a unique contribution to the cultural life of our city.
The only thing I didn’t like was the host. That guy just didn’t cut it for me.
I originally took on the position because covering arts and culture is a vital part of what we do here at WNET.ORG, and I wanted to be personally involved in getting this important new initiative off the ground.
But all along, I also knew I wanted hosts who had real knowledge and passion as well as great insight. I had plenty of enthusiasm – sure – but I wanted people who were a lot smarter than me.
And I found them.
Many of you know Paula Zahn from her years as a television journalist. You may have seen her host other PBS programs, like Retirement Revolution and our Great Performances Carnegie Hall Opening Night from a couple of years back. What you may not know is that she is classically-trained cellist who has worked other nonprofit institutions concerned with music and arts. With her love of music and her journalistic curiosity, she’ll bring something unique as one of the hosts of SundayArts.
new hosts!
If you’re like me, you can’t imagine walking through a special exhibit at the Met without hearing Philippe de Montebello’s voice in your ear. His influence on one of the most treasured museums in the world is incalculable, and when he decided to step down after more than 30 years, he was besieged with offers. We are so honored that he has decided to devote part of his very busy post-Met life to SundayArts.
The first show for our new team will be November 9, and as I step aside, I do so with thanks for all who have joined us so far, and the knowledge that Philippe and Paula will take the program on to new heights.
Also read the New York Times story
