Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch appoint their next Chief Executive

Andrew Shepherd has been appointed as Chief Executive (credit: Queens Theatre)

Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch have announced the appointment of their next Chief Executive.

Andrew Shepherd has been appointed in the role from 1st July 2024, following on from Mathew Russell who announced his departure in January.

Shepherd serves as the Executive Director of a prominent commercial theatre production company, Selladoor Worldwide. His previous leadership roles include Executive Director of Theatre503, where he oversaw a transformation of the new writing venue and initiatives such as securing the 503Studio at Nine Elms and launching a global online writers’ programme.

He also has a background in fundraising and independent theatre and film production. 

Shepherd succeeds Mathew Russell who, over the last seven years, has steered the charity through a period of financial turnaround, award-winning success, its first capital redevelopment, the pandemic and recovery, and considerable fundraising achievements, including a significant increase in Arts Council England investment.

Andrew Shepherd expressed his enthusiasm for joining Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, saying: “I am delighted to be joining Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch’s wonderful team. The theatre plays such a key role in its local community, as well as welcoming brilliant live entertainment from all over the
country.

“I can’t wait to build on an already outstanding legacy, working with the Creative Directors, wider team, new and existing partners, and the community itself to shape an accessible programme that reaches out to all audiences.”

He added, “I am particularly excited about a continued focus on the development and support of underrepresented artists and groups. While we are facing unprecedented challenges as an industry, I am fully committed for us to play our part in ensuring space and investment in new stories and storytellers reflecting the society we live in and who we aspire to be.”

In a statement, the theatre said: “Andrew Shepherd’s appointment signals an exciting new chapter for Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, known for its vibrant productions and commitment to community engagement. His leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the theatre’s continued success and its mission to enrich the cultural landscape of Havering and beyond.”