The Headgate Theatre is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Cameron Abbott-Betts to the new role of Headgate Director.
Cameron is widely admired in Colchester as the visionary and current director of Colchester Fringe, which launches on 24 October with ten days of theatre, cabaret, comedy, music and dance. Cameron’s extraordinary success in just five years brings hundreds of artists to Colchester from all over the world, including from Japan, USA, Mexico and India as well as from Europe, across the UK and Essex.
Working with other arts leaders and local businesses, he is a champion of diverse cultural initiatives in the region. He produces First Thursdays, a monthly event series for Creative Colchester, and with Lion Walk Shopping Centre, he has expanded local opportunities for performers to showcase their talents in various retail and outdoor spaces across the city.
Said George Branagh, Chair of Theatre Arts Action Trust, which oversees the operation and development of the Headgate Theatre:
“We are very much looking forward to Cameron’s arrival at the Headgate to take forward Now and Next, our five-year strategy. His bold vision will secure a leading role for the Headgate in Colchester and create many fantastic opportunities for local theatre-makers. It’s going to be an exciting new era.
“I was impressed by the incredibly strong field of candidates who invested significant efforts in their applications. We hope to maintain and continue to strengthen these potential partnerships.”
Dr Abbott-Betts is set to take up his position in November, working alongside the current theatre manager, Paul Button, who is due to leave in December.
Said George Branagh:
“We are indebted to Paul for his excellent management of the theatre, sometimes working at all times of the day and night. We wish him well in his next endeavour.
Said Cameron Abbott-Betts:
“The Headgate is vital to the cultural life of the city. It provides a community hub for expression and storytelling that brings people together. It was a big influence on me as a young person growing up in Colchester and I can’t wait to get started on the next phase of the Headgate’s development.”
Photo credit: Pippa Media.