The Board of Trustees of The New Wolsey Theatre Ipswich recently appointed David Edwards as its new Chairman and bade a fond farewell to outgoing Chairman Marilyn Martin who had been a member of the New Wolsey Board since its incorporation in 2000. Marilyn said
“It has given me enormous pleasure to be on the Board of the New Wolsey since the theatre re-opened and latterly as Chair. During this time, it has gone from strength to strength, has developed a reputation for excellence within the arts industry and has recently received a resounding endorsement with news of Arts Council England’s 20% funding uplift. It also enjoys the ongoing support of Suffolk County Council and Ipswich Borough Council. We should all be immensely proud of these achievements. I am happy to be handing over the New Wolsey reins to David who has an impressive track record in the arts world.”

Ipswich-born David Edwards, whose career has included being Chief Executive at Derby Playhouse and Head of Operations at Aldeburgh Music, said
“As someone whose earliest theatre experiences were at the former Ipswich Arts Theatre, I am delighted at the prospect of joining the New Wolsey team at this exciting point in the theatre’s development. The Arts Council’s confirmation of its ongoing support for the theatre is testament to the quality of the work, the company’s business acumen and its commitment to artist and audience development and I feel privileged to have been invited to become a part of it.”

New Wolsey Chief Executive Sarah Holmes added
“Marilyn has been an invaluable asset to The New Wolsey since its foundation eight years ago, combining impressive business skills with a belief in the company. David brings to the role plenty of hands-on arts management experience and a wealth of local knowledge. We are delighted to welcome him at this exciting stage.”

• David Edwards, Sarah Holmes and Marilyn Martin.

Laurel and Hardy, a co-production between The New Wolsey and Royal and Derngate Theatres, Northampton, plays at The New Wolsey until 3 May before moving to Basingstoke’s Haymarket Theatre (6 – 10 May) then the Royal and Derngate, Northampton (20 – 31 May).

For constant updates on The New Wolsey’s programme, visit www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

The New Wolsey’s Pulse Fringe Festival is now on sale. A vibrant and exciting mixture of arts events taking place throughout Ipswich between 29 May and 15 June, more details are available at www.pulsefringe.com and via the New Wolsey Box Office on 01473 295900