Annabel Turpin, incoming Chief Executive of Storyhouse (Chester). She has a short, blonde bob hairstyle with a full fringe. She wears black, large glasses and red lipstick. She is captured smiling and glancing sideways, with a bright pink wall in the background.
Changing Faces

Storyhouse appoints new Chief Executive

Arts Professional
2 min read

Chester’s Storyhouse has named ANNABEL TURPIN Chief Executive. 

Turpin will take up post at the charity in autumn as it prepares to launch its new three-year strategy. She joins from a 15-year stint at the helm of ARC Stockton Arts Centre as CEO. 

Turpin is also Co-Director of Future Arts Centres, a national network of over 130 arts centres. She launched and currently chairs Venues North, a group of more than 45 venues spanning the greater North, dedicated to increasing the exposure and reach of artists’ work.

As Deputy Chair and Strategic Lead for Creative Place for the Tees Valley Combined Authority’s Business Board (LEP), Turpin led the independent Tees Valley Creative & Visitor Economy Task Force in 2020-21. She undertakes consultancy work on organisational development for theatre companies, venues, and local authorities, and mentors and facilitates at both executive and board level. 

Previously she has produced and toured work nationally by artists, writers and theatre-makers. 

“Turpin comes with an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience as well as a sound reputation as an inspirational leader brimming with vision and passion,” Chair of Storyhouse DAVID WATSON said. 

“She demonstrated a clear respect for the organisation’s roots and local importance, whilst sharing our ambition for the future which sees Storyhouse continue to widen its reach and increase its impact across communities as well as engage, entertain and inspire the nation and the rest of the world through our outstanding work across all our stages and spaces.”

Turpin added: “I can’t wait to make Chester my home, and join the fantastic team at Storyhouse. 

“It’s already established as a key local institution, and I’m excited to work with local partners and communities to build on its success.”