Exeter Northcott CEO steps down

Daniel Buckroyd to leave in December

Daniel Buckroyd, CEO & Artistic Director of Exeter Northcott Theatre, has announced his intention to step down from the role in December, after four years at the venue, to take up a new role as Artistic Director of the Garrick Theatre in Lichfield.

Daniel said:
‘I started my directing career at the Northcott, and so it’s been a huge privilege to return to Exeter and work with such an amazing group of colleagues, trustees, volunteers and partners to put the theatre at the heart of the cultural life of the city and surrounding area.

Without the dedication of the Northcott team, and the steadfast support of audiences, we wouldn’t have been able to bounce back from Covid with such confidence, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together; a refurbished Northcott, a new city centre venue, and our work with communities are just a few of the highlights. Although I’m moving on to pastures new, you can be sure I’ll be following the Northcott’s fortunes with great interest and affection.’ 

Over the last four years, the Northcott Theatre has focused on reaching bigger and more diverse audiences and playing a key role in widening the range of creative opportunities available locally. New initiatives have included the Northcott Futures talent development programme; the Encompass Project working with Exeter’s Caribbean, Hindu & Polish communities; and the transformation of the Barnfield Theatre into a creative community hub for the city. The theatre has also won two Exeter Living Awards during this period. 

As well as attracting some of the very best UK touring drama, dance, music, comedy and variety to Exeter, Daniel has directed a number of in-house productions during his time at the Northcott, including the John Cleese farce, Bang Bang, which toured nationally after opening at the venue; a digital production of Brecht’s Antigone during lockdown; and the theatre’s 2019 panto, Beauty & the Beast, which he also wrote. Before leaving, Daniel is looking forward to directing this year’s panto, Robin Hood, which he co-wrote with Devon-based, Le Navet Bete.

Work will begin shortly to recruit Daniel’s successor.