Hodge steps down from Stratford East board to lead ACE review

Theatre Royal Stratford East has announced that Dame MARGARET HODGE will be stepping down as chair at the end of February after seven years in post to lead the independent review into Arts Council England.

Current trustees CHRISTO HIRD, who is managing director of Dartmouth Films, and theatre producer FRANCESCA MOODY will be acting as interim co-chairs while a replacement is recruited.

Hodge said: “It has been both a huge privilege and an enormous pleasure to have chaired the Stratford East board for the last seven years. Despite very challenging times, the theatre has maintained its unique and historic reputation for producing excellent shows that are both thought provoking and engaging and that attract a diverse audience both locally and across London.

“It has been a joy to work with both the board and the theatre’s many talented staff and I am proud that we have built the resilience necessary for us to succeed. With a great new leadership team now in place we can be confident that Stratford East can move from strength to strength. I won’t go far, and I look forward to regular visits to shows over the coming years.”

Artistic director and co-CEO LISA SPIRLING added: “Margaret’s leadership has been transformative for Stratford East, and we are deeply grateful for her tireless passion, advocacy and dedication.”