Remembering Sally Mackey

When I started my blog, I hadn’t anticipated that one of the first posts I’d write would be a reflection on the life and legacy of my dear friend and former colleague, Sally Mackey, who sadly passed away last week. Her untimely death has left a profound gap, both personally and professionally: these few words explain why.

Sally was one of the most important people I’ve had the privilege of working with. I joined a small but ambitious team led by Sally at the Central School of Speech and Drama in the 1990s. Together, we began to reshape the institution’s academic focus—transforming a BEd course into what became the BA in Drama Education and the secondary Drama PGCE. It may not seem revolutionary by today’s standards, but at the time it was a bold and radical shift.

Sally’s vision was central to this transformation. She played a vital role in shaping what we now recognise as the study and practice of Applied Theatre, bridging theatre, education, and community. For three years, she guided our team in designing and delivering new units of study, including what would become a long-term collaboration with the Minack Theatre. I truly believe that Sally gave voice to a style of work and reflective practice that is now deeply embedded across both academic institutions and the broader arts ecology.

Sally was a formidable academic, a pioneer in her field, and a passionate advocate for theatre’s power—and responsibility—to create positive change. She was Central’s first female professor and, after 31 years of service, was named Professor Emerita of the University of London in 2023. During her time at Central, she led the way in making the institution a leader in Applied Theatre, not just nationally, but internationally.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sally was warm, irreverent, mischievous, and endlessly engaging. She was wise, energetic, smart, and kind—someone who not only broke ground but brought others along with her. She inspired generations of students and colleagues, and her influence continues to ripple outwards through the work of those she mentored and encouraged.

I will miss her deeply. I’ll miss her sharp mind and her sparkle—her humour, her courage, and the twinkle in her eye. Sally was truly one of a kind.

My thoughts are with her beloved husband, David, and with all the friends, colleagues, and students who were lucky enough to know her. Her legacy will stay with us always.

A link from Central’s website talking about Sally’s achievements.

Photo: Sally speaking following her acceptance to become Professor Emerita of the University of London in 2023