Julie Ellen is photographed outside. The background is blurred. She has curly, brown hair and wears silver jewellery.

Photo: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

Changing Faces

Ellen becomes Byre Theatre Director

Arts Professional
2 min read

JULIE ELLEN joins Byre Theatre, University of St Andrews as Director. 

The role has been held by Co-Directors KALLY LLOYD–JONES and JESSICA RICHARDS since 2019. 

Ellen comes to Byre after a term as Artistic Director and CEO at Macrobert Arts Centre. She was previously Artistic Director of The Beacon and founding Creative Director of Playwrights' Studio in Scotland. 

Speaking about her new position, Ellen said: "The team and board have worked incredibly hard to present an amazingly busy and diverse programme to audiences from St Andrews and beyond, and I’m looking forward to working with them to take this much-loved institution to the next stage in its long history.

“This role also presents an opportunity to re-connect with St Andrews, a place like no other, which has a special place in my heart."

Lloyd-Jones commented: “It was an incredibly difficult decision to leave the Byre but we each felt the need to make change in our lives.

"I will be returning to my creative work as a director and choreographer and Jess is pursuing a new path, following her passion for the outdoors. 

“We are both very grateful for the time we have had as custodians of the Byre and to all our colleagues at the Byre, across the University of St Andrews and theatre sector and the local community.”