Leicester Curve boss vows to keep ‘regional theatre thriving’ in board role

Curve Theatre leader CHRIS STAFFORD has joined the board of UK Theatre, pledging to ensure regional venues “continue to thrive”.

Stafford, chief executive at the Leicester theatre and interim co-chief executive of the Royal Exchange in Manchester, was appointed by fellow trustees at the membership organisation, with his term announced on 4 November.

Meanwhile, Dame ROSEMARY SQUIRE, joint chief executive and executive chair of live entertainment business, Trafalgar Entertainment, has been reappointed to the board of UK Theatre’s sister organisation, Society of London Theatre (SOLT).

SOLT and UK Theatre co-chief executives CLAIRE WALKER and HANNAH ESSEX wrote: “We are thrilled to welcome Dame Rosemary back to the SOLT board and Chris to the UK Theatre board.

“Their in-depth knowledge of the theatre ecology as well as their significant experience as sector leaders will be a phenomenal asset in helping us to champion the sector and support our members in London and throughout the country. We look forward to working closely with them both.”

“I’m delighted to join the board of UK Theatre,” Stafford said. “Having spent more than twenty years working in theatres across the country, I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable impact our sector has on local communities. I look forward to working with Claire, Hannah and my fellow board members to ensure our regional theatres continue to thrive.” 

Squire added: “I am delighted to rejoin the SOLT board.

“West End theatre is a cherished part of my personal history first as co-founder of ATG and now of Trafalgar Entertainment. I look forward to working with my fellow board members to ensure that London continues to be the theatre capital of the world, with a West End that delivers an exceptional theatre experience to as many people as possible.”