Live Theatre has announced its new Chair and extended its Board of Trustees

Susan Wear has been appointed Chair, with Paul Shevlin as Vice-Chair. Former Chair Lucy Winskell who is Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear and Chair of the North East LEP among other appointments, will remain on the Board of Trustees.

New to the Board is chartered surveyor John Holmes and newly co-opted members are: novelist, performer and creative practitioner Lisette Auton, freelance theatre practitioner Tom Marton, artist (writer/performer) Maya Torres and former NEC Group Marketing Director and now a contemporary artist Nic Young.

Susan’s career began as a journalist and she has held several senior roles in both private and public sector organisations in the North East and further afield. Now a communications consultant, she has held several non-executive posts and is also a playwright. She believes passionately in the unique power of the performing arts to change lives and change society.

Susan said: “The arts help young people to build their skills and creativity and to use these super-powers throughout their lives. Live Theatre exists to encourage and empower the telling of stories in ways that can ultimately make things better for everyone. It’s an incredible place that has always punched way above its weight as part of the fabric of the North East region and also on the national theatre scene. After and outstanding 50th anniversary year, and with a fantastic 24/25 season to come it’s a huge honour. I’m very excited about working with the Board and the joint Chief Executives to help Live Theatre continue to thrive and succeed as we set off into the next 50 years and beyond.”

Live Theatre’s new season is on sale featuring highlight productions The Bounds, Saint Maud and Champion and visiting works including award-winning mixed reality installation Museum of Austerity, one-woman show All White Everything But Me, hard-hitting musical comedy We’re Not Going Back and Christmas shows Blitzen On The Tyne and Present. For more information go to www.live.org.uk