Theatre Director leaves BEAM Hertford

Theatre Director Rhys Thomas is to leave BEAM Hertford, with advisors from Everyone Active brought in to run the popular town centre venue.

A statement published on East Herts Council's website said: "We are pleased to announce that Sports and Leisure Management Limited (SLM), also known as Everyone Active, will be supporting East Herts Council in the lead up to the launch of BEAM"

"We want to thank East Herts Theatre Director and Council Arts Advisor Rhys Thomas, who has decided to step down from his role. We are grateful to him for his hard work and dedication over the last 15 years and wish him every success In the future."

SLM manage several local theatres including Gordon Craig Theatre at Stevenage and the Alban Arena in St Albans.

Richard Cassidy, Chief Executive of East Herts Council said "We have been working tirelessly with the team at BEAM to create a building that all our residents in East Herts can access and be proud of. This is one of the Council’s most important assets and we cannot wait for our residents to see it in action. The dedicated BEAM team welcome the additional support and guidance, and look forward to delivering this amazing arts, culture, and community venue."

Duncan Jefford, Regional Director for SLM said "We are excited to be continuing our working relationship with East Herts District Council. We are pleased to offer experienced Directors from our theatre venues and their operational knowledge, to support the committed and professional team at BEAM through their launch period."

BEAM Hertford have confirmed that Operations Manager Ben Cannell remains at the venue.

Updated 6/6/24 to clarify that advisors from EA will be supporting the existing BEAM team and council officers in running the venue, rather than taking over the administration.