Leeds Heritage Theatres appoints key roles at pivotal moment of change
Leeds Heritage Theatres is delighted to announce the appointment of several esteemed industry figures in both new and continuing roles. As we refine our artistic vision and strategy, these appointments will help reinforce our role as a leading cultural voice in Leeds while celebrating our three iconic venues.
Matt Collier joins as Head of Development and Daljinder Singh as Senior Creative Producer, while Frank Burkitt will step into the role of Programmer as Andrea Wadsworth retires after many dedicated years in the position. Andrea has been instrumental in shaping our theatres and enhancing the cultural experience for audiences in Leeds.
Vicky Cheetham, CEO, says: “I’m thrilled to welcome Matt, Daljinder, and Frank to our team at this pivotal moment of change. Their expertise and passion will be invaluable in driving Leeds Heritage Theatres’ bold Strategic Plan – developed with our Board and Senior Leadership Team – to build on our successes while shaping an inclusive, dynamic future.
“We are dedicated to refining our working practices to become more agile and responsive to the unique challenges of our sector, enriching experiences for artists, young people, audiences, and colleagues. Our plan focuses on optimising our spaces to create and expand opportunities for the people of Leeds and the wider region, supported by a revitalised commercial strategy and a strengthened fundraising approach to secure the resources needed to achieve our ambitions.”
Matt Collier, Head of Development will lead on developing a new sustainable strategy to support activity across the organisation through various funding streams. He brings nine years of experience from both private and third-sector cultural institutions. Before joining, he worked within the National Development Department at English Heritage, developing transformational income and investment to support a diverse programme of capital, artistic and community projects. Matt previously worked as Business Development Manager for Castle Howard, York, one of the country’s finest Stately Homes
Matt says: “I am excited to be joining the Team at Leeds Heritage Theatres at this key moment in the organisation’s history. For over 140 years, our venues have been at the heart of providing the city of Leeds with access to world-class arts and culture, in an amazing variety of formats, and we have ambitious plans to continue this for many years to come.
“Our sector faces no shortage of ongoing challenges, but it’s a pleasure to be working with the team to ensure our programme and venues remain accessible for all to enjoy. I look forward to connecting people with culture through our fantastic learning programmes, after-school clubs, or on a Friday night out with friends.” (www.linkedin.com/in/mattcollier14)
Daljinder Singh, Senior Creative Producer, has a wealth of experience in the arts, including most recently Theatre Deli and Oldham Coliseum. Daljinder will be supporting the Learning and Engagement team in Rachel Lythe’s absence whilst on maternity leave, scoping opportunities around Leeds Heritage Theatres’ creative training provision, and working with the Artistic Planning Group to launch our multi-artform multi-venue series of programming and artist-curated work.
Daljinder says: “I’m thrilled to join the team at this very exciting time in its journey. The venues at Leeds Heritage Theatres are truly historic and have a deep connection with their audiences. I look forward to working with the fantastic team here to bring forward artistically ambitious projects and programmes.”
Frank Burkitt, Programmer will support the delivery and development of a diverse music, comedy, and variety programme, exploring opportunities with new partners. Frank previously served as Theatre Manager at The Muni Theatre in Lancashire. He is the Co-Artistic Director of the Todmorden Folk Festival and has spent years touring internationally with The Frank Burkitt Band. A trained actor, he has extensive experience working in theatre in education.
Frank says: “I am delighted to join the Leeds Heritage Theatres’ team and look forward to contributing to a vibrant and diverse programme of events at the historic City Varieties Music Hall.
“Although I grew up in Scotland, I was born in Leeds, so I am relishing the chance to get to know my hometown and its thriving cultural and artistic offerings. What a privilege it will be to add to this over the coming years.”