Death of Bill Sheat, a major influence on our cultural life

by Wellington.Scoop — January 20, 2021

William (Bill) Sheat, who died in Lower Hutt this week, completed more than seven decades as an innovative leader in the creative arts, not only in Wellington but also throughout New Zealand.

His exceptional record included chairing national and regional performing arts institutions as well as spearheading the preservation of two of Wellington’s most iconic theatres. He advocated passionately for a living wage for artists, and provided pro bono legal advice to countless artists and organisations. Without his commitment and contribution, New Zealand’s cultural assets would not be what they are today.

Bill Sheat’s creative work began as a student in Wellington in 1948, when he joined the Victoria University Drama Club for which he produced and directed university extravaganzas and revues from 1949 till 1967. He was president from 1950 to 1953.

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