Northern Broadsides names new Chair

DEBBIE RICHARDS is to become Chair of Northern Broadsides.

Richards has over 25 years’ experience in the non-profit creative sector with a background in marketing for touring theatre companies and producing site-specific theatre. 

In 2003, Richards co-founded Baker Richards, providing consulting services and software for the cultural sector. She has extensive experience in governance, serving on the boards across artforms including theatre, media and live cinema. 

Alongside Richards, PATSY GILBERT and LUCINDA HARVEY join the Halifax-based theatre company as Vice-Chairs.

Gilbert is Vice Principal at Leeds Conservatoire, where she developed new student programmes in Musical Theatre, Acting and Actor Musician. Harvey has experience in theatre production and human resources, promoting inclusivity for disabled poeple in the West End and across the UK. Their contributions include establishing the Relaxed 2 Performance Project and providing guidance on working conditions in the theatre industry.

“Collaboration and co-creation are at the heart of the Northern Broadsides vision,” Richards said. 

“We know that if leaders are collaborative, and model this in how an organisation is run, then a sense of community is created.

"We will share inspiration and ideas and learn from one another to create the conditions for Northern Broadsides to thrive.”

Executive Director RUTH COOKE and Artistic Director LAURIE SANSOM said Richards' experience and passion for the arts makes her the “perfect person to lead our dedicated and talented team of trustees”. 

“The shared leadership model, with Lucinda and Patsy taking active roles as Vice-Chairs, opens up opportunities for collaboration and support and is in line with Northern Broadsides commitment to championing a breadth of voices across all aspects of our work.”