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Fresh Face at Thwaites Empire Theatre!

Thwaites Empire Theatre are proud to announce the appointment of a new General Manager. Ian Robinson takes over from Harriet Roberts, who has moved onto special projects.

 

Ian has been involved at Chorley Little Theatre for over 20 years, where he's been responsible for marketing, design, and programming. He recently oversaw their "Raise The Roof" project to repair and restore the 100-year-old building - so now he's at Blackburn to help do the same!

 

Ian said "I've always admired the way Thwaites Empire has been run, and I'm thrilled to be part of the team. It's a great set-up here with a fantastic army of volunteers and the venue is something everyone can be very proud of."

 

The new General Manager will be working alongside the theatre's Chairman Michael Berry to bring top-name acts to the venue, as well as continuing to provide a showcase for local talent. Already, the comedian Freddie Starr has booked for the Autumn with a number of other stars being lined up.

 

For Ian, the job marks a slight change of direction. Although always involved with theatre (as well as Chorley Film Society) he's spent the last 11 years working as a toy designer and has created products for top companies including Asda, Sainsburys, Clinton Cards, JJB Sports and Argos. He's worked alongside Marvel Comics, the Manchester Commonwealth Games, and created the logo for the Linda McCartney Cancer Centre in Liverpool. Ian will be bringing his design skills to Thwaites Empire.

 

Former General Manager, Harriet Roberts, is no longer involved in the day-to-day running of the building but is still around in spirit as she's organising the upcoming Gala Dinner and other Centenary Projects. She'll be looking for funding to literally Raise The Roof of the building and create a wonderful space for the Ewood community. Architects are drawing up plans to be unveiled soon based on research conducted by Harriet.

 

Harriet is also overseeing the bookings for the 2010 Pantomime, Mother Goose. It's a challenge to top last year's record-breaking panto, Jack And The Beanstalk, but we're confident of repeating the success this year. Group bookings are already being taken - see our What's On page for details.