Pilot Theatre Names New Artistic Director

Pilot Theatre are delighted to announce that Esther Richardson will join the company as their new Artistic Director and joint Chief Executive Officer. She will take over from Marcus Romer who has led the organisation for the last 22 years.

A graduate of Bristol University and Goldsmiths College, Esther joins the company after working as Associate Director at CAST in Doncaster and as Associate Artist for Soho Theatre and Derby LIVE. Her most recent productions have included Blood by Emteaz Hussain for Tamasha Theatre, Dancehall for Cast, Doncaster and How to Breathe for Nottingham Playhouse.

Esther Richardson said about her appointment:

"I've long admired the work of Pilot Theatre as a nationally leading touring company for young adults, and the company's commitment to innovation, international-working, new work and diversity makes me immensely excited to take up this role. Pilot Theatre hosts a vital cultural space for young artists and audiences, and embraces the opportunities of a fast-changing technological world. It's a privilege to have the chance to build on the company's ambitious work across multiple platforms and I can't wait to get started."

On announcing the new appointment Pilot Theatre's Chair, Professor Christopher Bailey said:

"I am delighted to welcome Esther Richardson as the new Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive Officer of the company. Esther joins us at an exciting point in Pilot's development. We have a secure reputation, both for the quality of the theatre we make with and for young people that we tour to venues nationally and internationally, and for our innovative, large scale productions based on communities and their stories. As Artistic Director of Theatre Writing Partnership Esther brought the work of numerous new writers to the stage. As director of the Creative England iwrite showcase she is drawing on her experience of screen based drama. Esther brings the ideal mix of skills and experience to help us achieve our aims, the range of her directing activity matches Pilot's ambition."

Marcus Romer, Pilot's outgoing Artistic Director added about Esther Richardson's appointment:

"I am absolutely thrilled that Esther Richardson has been appointed as my successor. Esther brings a wealth of experience and fresh ideas to the company, and together with the experienced team already in place I am confident that Pilot will go from strength to strength."

Pilot Theatre is one of the UK's leading touring theatre companies. Our vision is to produce work that sparks passion and ignites debate across the globe through our performances and digital networks. The create pioneering contemporary work celebrating diversity in all its forms with particular relevance to young people and the issues they face in their lives. Pilot Theatre nurture emergent talent and aspiring artists from all walks of life and give them the opportunity to share their voice and their art with the world.

Esther Richardson will take up her the appointment full time from Monday 4th July 2016

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