National Theatre of Scotland announce appointment of new chair

Jane Spiers has been announced as the new chair of the National Theatre of Scotland.

A respected arts leader, she will take up the role in September this year, succeeding Seona Reid.

Spiers is currently the chief executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts and will stand down from that position on July 1.

Reid had worked as the chair of the National Theatre of Scotland for a period of nine years.

The appointment was announced by the National Theatre of Scotland on Monday.

Spiers paid tribute to Reid for her time in the role, as well as to the artistic director of the National Theatre of Scotland, Jackie Wylie.

“It is a pleasure and a privilege to be the next chair of the National Theatre of Scotland,” she said.

“I have always loved the idea of Scotland’s theatre without walls, theatre that tells everyone’s stories everywhere and is inspired by people and place.

“Seona Reid has been an outstanding chair and leaves a wonderful legacy to build on. I am hugely attracted by Jackie Wylie’s pioneering vision, her energy and generosity of spirit.”

Spiers described herself as “excited” to have the opportunity to champion and support the National Theatre of Scotland.

“I am looking forward to working with the board, the team and the wider Scottish theatre community as we emerge from the global pandemic, look to the future and reflect on our part in recovery,” she continued.

“The team’s commitment to bold vision and work that is truly representative of society in all its richness and complexity is more vital than ever.

“I am excited to continue the conversation and have the opportunity to champion and support the National Theatre of Scotland as we evolve and grow”.

Wylie praised the “exemplary” experience of Spiers in taking up the position.

She said: “I am thrilled that the board have unanimously approved the appointment of Jane Spiers as the company’s new chair. She is the best kind of cultural leader.

“She matches years of exemplary executive and governance experience with an intrinsic belief in the critical value of the arts to audiences and communities alongside an unshakeable commitment to artists and innovation. 

“I look forward to working with her, in her new role as the National Theatre of Scotland’s chair, and for the organisation to benefit from her authentic passion for driving progressive systemic change through board leadership”