On International Women’s Day (Friday 8 March), we're delighted to announce four new female board members, cementing ourselves as a majority female led organisation.

Helen Blakeman, Amy Causley and Karen Cody have all joined our Board of Trustees to work alongside a host of influential women already supporting the two theatres. Caroline Roberts-Cherry will also join the board later this year.

Helen Blakeman is a BAFTA and International Emmy Award winning writer (which she won for her TV film Dustbin Baby). Helen writes for TV, film and theatre; currently the creator, lead writer and associate producer of the BAFTA nominated CBBC series Hetty Feather – now in its fifth series. Helen said: “I’m thrilled to be part of the board - as a creative and a local, both theatres are so dear to my heart.”

The University of Liverpool’s Head of HR Policy and Employee Engagement Amy Causley brings her expertise and experience in HR and diversity to the board. Amy said: “The Everyman & Playhouse have been a joyful part of my relationship with the City since coming to Liverpool 20 years ago. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to play a part in the contribution the theatres, and all involved, make to our community, the wider region and the arts”

Karen Cody joins the board bringing a wealth of experience in theatre. The former Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) employee has worked in a number of theatre venues. In 2011 she introduced the ATG Theatre Card, which quickly became the largest theatre membership scheme in the UK. Karen said: "I am delighted to join the board of the Everyman & Playhouse as they continue to champion and nurture local talent and develop their world-class theatre offer, for the audiences of Merseyside and beyond."

Joining Helen, Amy and Karen on the Board in May 2019 is experienced trustee Caroline Roberts-Cherry, who joins after nine years as a member of Manchester Royal Exchange board. A former BBC executive, Caroline runs the award-winning television production company Saffron Cherry. Caroline said: “I am so delighted to be asked to join the iconic Everyman and Playhouse, it’s a real honour. I look forward to getting involved and being part of the magical energy in Liverpool.”

The new board members join an already strong female led organisation, with former TATE Liverpool director Andrea Nixon MBE, Liverpool City Councillor Wendy Simon, chartered accountant Bren Hutchinson and Blackburne House Chief Executive Claire Dove OBE, all part of the current Board of Trustees.

Fiona Gibson, our interim Chief Executive, said: “We are so thrilled to have such a talented group of professional women joining our Board at this special time. Each brings their own unique blend of passion and expertise, and we are excited to have them share this with us as we further develop the reach of our wonderful two theatres here in the Liverpool City Region.”