Downstage Theatre Announces New Chair

Downstage Theatre Announces New Chair



Downstage Theatre Trust is pleased to welcome Dr. Allan Freeth to its Board. Dr. Freeth has been appointed to the Board for a handover period before taking up the role of Chair.

Dr. Freeth is on the Board of Save the Children where he currently chairs the Strategy and Planning Board Committee. He has extensive experience in management and board governance roles including as former CEO of TelstraClear and Wrightson, a Director of Genesis Research and Development Corporation, and GNS Science. He has been a member of the Advisory Board for Treasury and is a trustee of Crimestoppers New Zealand.

Dr Freeth says of his appointment: “Downstage is an iconic institution in Wellington and has played a crucial role in the development of theatre in the City and New Zealand. It is facing a challenging period and I look forward to working with the Downstage team and community in ensuring its ongoing success.

Dr. Freeth will replace Helen Moody in the role of Chair.

Helen Moody: “We are delighted Allan is prepared to chair the Board. He understands the value of the performance arts and the mutual benefits of community-business-arts partnerships, as part of an inclusive, energized, innovative city. His forthright assessment of where we are at, and what is needed to build the future success of Downstage, is exciting. ”

The process that saw Allan appointed was facilitated on a pro bono basis by the Wellington search firm, Executive Appointments.

Downstage Theatre Trust (est. 1971) governs the operations of Downstage Theatre, which has supported the development of professional New Zealand theatre and theatre-makers, engaging audiences with ‘out-of-the-ordinary’ theatre experiences, for almost 50 years. All Board members are volunteers.

Other current members of the board are:
JAMES ASHCROFT (Ngati Kahu/Nga Puhi/English) Tumuaki Artistic Director and CEO of Taki Rua Productions, The National Theatre for Maori; TRACEY BRIDGES of Senate SHJ Group; PETA WALKER, Director, BW Chartered Accountants Ltd; GRAHAM ATKINSON, Delivery Manager at Wellington City Transport.

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