Northern Stage appoints interim Executive Director 

SIAN ALEXANDER will take up the post of Interim Executive Director at Northern Stage, working part-time while continuing her work as an independent consultant for the arts sector.

She replaces current Executive Director KATE DENBY, who will leave the Newcastle-based organisation in mid-September to take up a new role at Glasgow's Citizens Theatre.  

Alexander will spend time on a handover with Denby before commencing the role fully in October. Recruitment details for a permanent Executive Director role will be announced in Spring 2025. 

AMY FAWDINGTON, Director of Communications and Sales, has been promoted to interim Deputy Executive Director to help support Alexander during the leadership transition.

Alexander will focus on strategy, business planning and governance, while Fawdington will lead on operational Executive Director activity, supporting the staff team and managing delivery. 

Formerly Executive Director and CEO at Lyric Hammersmith and the Bush Theatre, Alexander has a long-term association with climate, nature and justice group Julie's Bicycle. She was also previously Arts Council England’s Head of Theatre.

NATALIE IBU, Artistic Director and CEO at Northern Stage said, “Sian is a wonderful addition to the executive team at Northern Stage. Her broad skillset and the depth of her experience will be really valued by all of us here at Northern Stage and I am really looking forward to working more closely with her over the coming months.”