This blog was initially published on 14th October with the news of the nomination but has been updated on 24th October after Geraldine won the award. We are delighted to announce that Geraldine Connor has a Legacy Award for 'Lifetime Achievement'

The Legacy Awards celebrate excellence by those that are not usually recognised for their achievements. Awards are given to individuals and organisations that go above and beyond to reach their goals and impact on their community, city and further afield.

We are thrilled that Geraldine has been recognised for her work; her impact on arts and culture in Leeds and across the world  truly was outstanding, and her legacy continues to inspire people today.

Geraldine is possibly best known for having written, composed and directed Carnival Messiah, a spectacular work that reimagines Handel’s Messiah and mixes it with the music and eclecticism of Caribbean Carnival. Carnival Messiah was performed several times in the UK and also in Trinidad and Tobago. Geraldine also created many more theatrical productions throughout her life, many in collaboration with the West Yorkshire Playhouse (now Leeds Playhouse).

As well as her theatrical work, Geraldine worked widely as a teacher, both in Trinidad and Tobago and in the UK, and was Senior Lecturer in Popular Music Studies at Bretton Hall. She was also a tutor and education supervisor at the Brent Black Music Cooperative in London. In 2009, she was presented with Trinidad and Tobago’s second highest national honour, the Chaconia medal (gold).

Geraldine sadly passed away in 2011 but her legacy lives on through the Geraldine Connor Foundation and through all the artists who had the chance to work with her.

For a more detailed biography of Geraldine, please visit the Our History page of our website.

Congratulations again to Geraldine!

David Lascelles accepting the award for Geraldine at the Legacy Awards 2019.