Image Blue Apple Theatre production of Animal Farm
Blue Apple Theatre, a leading UK theatre company for learning disabled performers, has appointed two new trustees: Lucy Tomlinson and Emma Taylor. Both are strong advocates for diversity and inclusion in the arts and committed to helping Blue Apple Theatre reach its full potential.
Lucy Tomlinson is a cultural consultant with experience in large-scale partnership projects and arts festivals. She is currently Trusts and Foundations Manager at MAST Mayflower Studios.
Emma Taylor is a post-doctoral research fellow with a background in healthcare and project management. She has worked in the SEND charity sector for over 15 years, using the arts to foster independence and confidence in young adults with learning disabilities. She is also an experienced performer herself.
“I’m so excited to join the Blue Apple Theatre board and help make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities,” said Lucy Tomlinson. “I believe that the arts can help to transform lives, and I’m committed to working with Blue Apple to create opportunities for people with learning disabilities to express themselves and find joy and connection in the performing arts.”
“I passionately believe that the arts can challenge discrimination and prejudice,” said Emma Taylor. “I’m looking forward to working with Blue Apple to create work that raises awareness of the issues facing people with learning disabilities and inspires others to make a difference.”
Blue Apple Theatre was founded in Winchester in 2005 by Jane Jessop with her son Tommy Jessop. Tommy and his mother set up Blue Apple to create acting and performing opportunities for people with a learning disability who cannot access mainstream activities.
Through producing high-quality theatre, singing, dance, and film, Blue Apple Theatre aims to challenge prejudice and transform the lives of people with learning disabilities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lucy and Emma to the Blue Apple Theatre board,” said Professor Ed Rochead, Chair of the Blue Apple Board of Trustees. “They bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to our organisation. We are confident that they will help us to continue to grow and thrive.”
Lucy Tomlinson and Emma Taylor join the Blue Apple Theatre board alongside existing trustees Megan Ball, Kim Gottlieb, Lucy McKenna, Ed Rochead, Duncan Rutter, and Marilyn Weston. The board is responsible for setting the organisation’s strategic direction, overseeing its finances, and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
For more information about Blue Apple Theatre and its trustees, please visit blueappletheatre.com
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