Unity Theatre chair hails departing exec director

Sue Williams

The Unity Theatre in Liverpool has announced that its executive director Sue Williams will leave her role at the end of 2017 to undertake various freelance arts management work as well as develop her career as a humanitarian minister.

Theatre bosses have hailed her contribution over the last 22 years. She joined the organisation in 1995 and has worked in partnership with her colleague and friend, former artistic director Graeme Phillips.

Her achievements include the 1997 refurbishments which saw Unity in the first tranche of companies receiving National Lottery monies and the transformation of the building into the “modern unity theatre venue” of today as well as her work leading the organisation’s close relationship with Unity’s patrons.

Williams said ‘I love the Unity and am astonished by how quickly the 22 years have gone by but now feels like the right moment for me to take on new challenges.

“It’s been an amazing time. Over the next few months I’m looking forward to seeing out some of the work I’m doing at the Unity and to continue working with a great group of people.”

Chris Bliss, chair of Unity Theatre said: ‘We’re immensely proud of all that Sue has achieved at the Unity Theatre over the last 22 years, and the impact of her work amongst the communities of Liverpool and in particular for family audiences, will continue to be felt for many years to come.

“The board, staff and countless artists will miss her caring and nurturing hand. On behalf of the trustees I would like to thank her for her crucial role in the development of Unity Theatre which has ensured that the organisation continues to be a vital and important theatrical force in Liverpool and beyond.”

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