Unity Theatre announced that Sue Williams will leave her role as Executive Director of the Unity Theatre at the end of 2017 to pursue new interests.
Sue 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.’
Sue has been vital to the ongoing growth and success of Unity for over 20 years, having joined the organisation in May 1995, for many of those years working in partnership with her colleague and friend, former artistic director Graeme Phillips. Her achievements with Unity are too many to list here but Sue brings to mind the 1997 refurb 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 Patron’s.
Sue developed Unity Angels – the venue’s monthly donation scheme which to date has raised in excess of £65,000.
Sue supported the development of Liverpool based LGBT+ Arts organisation Homotopia from its very inception and is still a very active supporter of LGBT+ arts. In supporting the setting up and development of Homotopia, Sue helped to create a thriving and nationally recognised platform for LGBT+ artists, new work, provocation and celebration. Homotopia returns to the Unity Theatre this year 31 Oct – 11 November 2017.
When asked about fond memories, Sue Williams said ‘There are too many to mention. I love Unity’s shows and the artists… there have been so many magical moments, including Angels in America, David Yip’s Gold Mountain and Nina – a story about me and Nina Simone with Unity Patron Josette Bushell-Mingo OBE, to name but a few.’
‘And finally, it’s been a great privilege to have worked alongside colleagues and board members who have made Unity Theatre such a special place to work.’
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.’
Sue will be leaving Unity Theatre to undertake various freelance arts management work as well as develop her career as a humanitarian minister. She is also looking forward to spending much more time with her 2 year old nephew!
Matthew Linley, Artistic Director and CEO of Unity Theatre added ‘Sue’s contribution and impact on the Unity Theatre cannot be underestimated – she’s been at the heart of everything we’ve done for over two decades – tirelessly working to ensure our ongoing success. For me and all the Unity Theatre team she has been a consistent support, a steady hand, and a critical friend. As we celebrate all her many achievements with us, we also wish her every success with her new projects.’
Sue’s news follows the departure of House Manager Chris Hennessy after over 32 years at the radical Liverpool venue. Chris initially joined Unity Theatre as a volunteer usher, and had been in the role of House Manager for over 25 years. Chris has been well known and loved by our artists, audiences, staff and volunteers. He’s also been responsible for ensuring our beloved Hope Place base remains spic and span and has taken a leading role in overseeing our capital projects over the years. The whole Unity Theatre board and team wish him well in his new ventures.
Unity Theatre will shortly begin recruitment for the new role of Operations and Commercial Manager who will continue to develop the Unity Theatre organisationally, following the recent confirmation of Arts Council funding for the next four years.