Lyric appoints new Executive Director

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Director of Communications Jessica Hepburn replaces Simon Mellor

Lyric Hammersmith has today announced that Jessica Hepburn will be replacing Simon Mellor as Executive Director of the West London theatre in January 2006.

Jessica Hepburn, 35, is currently the Lyric's Director of Communications. She joined the Theatre in 2001, originally as Head of Development & Touring, and became Director of Communications, overseeing the Fundraising, Marketing, Sales and Touring functions of the theatre in January 2004. Her achievements over the last four years have included leading the £2.6 million fundraising campaign for the Theatre's recent redevelopment and significantly increasing revenue fundraising and ticket income.

Her appointment follows the recent arrival of David Farr as the Lyric Hammersmith's new Artistic Director. Hepburn and Farr will become Co-Chief Executives of the Theatre.

"I'm thrilled to be taking over at such an exciting time in the Lyric's history" Hepburn says. "Simon is leaving the Lyric in a really strong position, both artistically and financially, and I am looking forward to working with David over the next few years to grow the theatre's reputation even further."

The Chair of Lyric Hammersmith's Board Sandy Orr said: "I and the whole Board are delighted to have been able to make such a strong appointment. Jessica has been an outstanding success in all of the areas of the Lyric's work that she has led and she will make an outstanding Chief Executive."

Hepburn, a graduate of Leeds and Newcastle Universities, began her theatre career in Newcastle with Northern Stage. She then spent three years as Head of Development for Brighton Festival and The Brighton Dome before moving to the Lyric. She is also a Board Member of the acclaimed theatre company Told By An Idiot.

Simon Mellor is leaving the Lyric to become Producing Director for the new Manchester International Festival.

November 27, 2005