Artists shape the future at Exeter Northcott

Exeter Northcott Theatre has announced the appointment of seven new trustees to its board, reinforcing its commitment to creative growth in the South West.

Ellie Fitz-Gerald, Julian Stoneman, Kingsley Jayasekera, Lauren Berry, Lauren King, Paul Clay, and Tom Littler will join the existing board to help shape the theatre’s future. They will work alongside current trustees Becky Chapman, David Balcombe, Jane Milling, James Anthony-Edwards, Linda Peka, Mia Hodge, Sarah Elghady, and Tom Begbie.

“This is an exciting moment in our story,” said Co-Chairs Becky Chapman and David Balcombe. “We have a clear vision of Exeter Northcott as a driver for creativity in the South West, making work with and for people in our region. Our new trustees bring a wealth of experience and expertise to propel this vision forward.”

Alongside its new board members, Exeter Northcott has launched its first artists’ assembly, a pioneering initiative designed to embed artists in strategic decision-making.

The assembly will meet four times a year, with each session including a member of the theatre’s executive, creative engagement, and programming teams. A nominated artist from the assembly will also attend board meetings, ensuring the artistic community plays an active role in shaping the theatre’s future.

“We want to make space for more voices at every level,” said Joint Chief Executives Emma Stephenson, Kelly Johnson, and Martin Berry. “Last year, we returned to producing work, opened up applications for creative roles, and launched our artist development programme, Elevate. Supporting artists means creating structures that allow them to influence what we do.”

The Northcott is also expanding opportunities for young people to contribute to its strategic direction.

“We’ve had student trustees on the Northcott board for some time, and their perspectives have been invaluable,”said the Chief Executives. “We’re now looking to amplify that further with a Youth Voice programme, ensuring the next generation has a say in shaping the Northcott’s future.”

With its new leadership, artist-focused initiatives, and a growing commitment to inclusivity, the Exeter Northcott Theatre is poised for an exciting new chapter in its long-standing role as a cultural hub for the South West.