Trustees Week 2025

Trustees’ Week is a time for us to come together to celebrate the achievements of nearly one million trustees across the UK who generously give their time, commitment, energy and support to help charities thrive.

A Trustee role is voluntary, and we are very lucky to have an incredible group adding their expertise and guidance to the wider Novo Theatre team. Our full board includes Jill Read (chair), John Beattie, Jo Darby, Chris Foxon, Helen Fussell, Mark Quigley, Lauren Regan and Fiona Whitehurst.

We asked our trustees what made them choose to join the Novo Theatre board, and this is what some of them said…

Mark Quigley

“As a born and bred northerner, I have always been fascinated by the ways in which place influences people.  The way that Novo Theatre engages with local communities both recognises and celebrates this dynamic. I hope that my role as a Trustee makes a contribution to this important work.”

John Beattie

“I became a trustee because I believe in the power of the arts to connect people, tell untold stories, and strengthen communities. Becoming a trustee is a way to champion creativity and support the people who bring it to life.”

Chris Foxon

"As a theatre producer and writer, I know how vital organisations which open pathways and share new stories are. Organisations like Novo Theatre, which does so much to enrich our regional - and national - culture. I'm constantly impressed by the team's energy and ambition, and it's a privilege to help support their work."

Lauren Regan

“Living and working in Northumberland, I’ve always admired the innovative and unexpected ways Novo Theatre tells stories about this amazing place and the people who call it home. Their work captures something truly special about life in the North East and I want as many people as possible to experience and support that. Joining the board felt like a natural step to use my skills to help the team grow, thrive, and remain a resilient part of our region’s cultural landscape.”