Orange Tree Theatre (OT) announce that it has appointed Julie Weston as its next Executive Director and co-CEO.

Weston will transition from her current role as Interim Deputy Executive Director at the OT to take over as Executive Director from Hanna Streeter, effective as of this summer. 

The soon to be Executive Director said: "I'm thrilled to have been appointed as the new Executive Director at the Orange Tree to work alongside the brilliant Tom Littler as co-CEO.

"Hanna Streeter leaves behind a great legacy and I'm delighted to be following in her footsteps.

"As a much loved and highly respected theatre, it will be a joy and honour to be part of the Orange Tree's future, including our exciting capital development plans." 

Weston has extensive experience leading organisations across the non-profit and arts sectors.

Before joining OT, Weston's roles included Chief Operating Officer at The Audience Agency, Director of Operations at WAC Arts, a charity offering inclusive performing arts programmes, and as Interim Executive Director at both Cardboard Citizens, a charity offering life-changing theatre opportunities for homeless people, and the award-winning Frantic Assembly.

She also brings a wealth of administrative and HR leadership following roles with the Edinburgh International Book Festival, British Heart Foundation and within the National Health Service.

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Artistic Director Tom Littler commented: "Julie has proved herself an astute and gifted leader of a range of organisations.

"In a competitive process, her exceptional range of experience and expertise stood out, as did her love of great drama and the artists who make it.

"This summer, the Orange Tree team will bid a fond and grateful farewell to Hanna Streeter, who has transformed the theatre's fortunes during her six years here.

"But we will also be excited to welcome Julie into her new role. I'm looking forward to sharing the leadership of the OT with her and guiding this magical theatre to fresh adventures." 

Tom Littler and Julie Weston at the Playhouse Creatures press night (credit: Roy Baron).

Hanna Streeter added: "I'm delighted that the Board have appointed Julie to take the reins as joint CEO with Tom.

"Julie has been a wonderfully passionate, collaborative and kind leader for the past six months as Deputy ED, while I've focused on fundraising for our capital project.

"She's made a transformative impact in that short time, helping us to refocus and sharpen following a period of growth. I'll be watching with pride and excitement as she and Tom take the OT forward into its bright future, with a beautiful new front of house."  

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Judy Gibbons, the OT's Chair of Trustees said: "Since joining us as Deputy Executive Director five months ago, Julie has proven herself to be an accomplished and thoughtful leader.

"She brings strong expertise in financial management, human resources, operations, and partnership development, while fostering collaboration across the organisation.

"Alongside her professional strengths, Julie's genuine passion for theatre and the mission of the OT shines through. Her skills and leadership style complement those of our Artistic Director, Tom Littler, and we are confident they will form a strong and effective partnership as co-CEOs.

"We look forward to all they will achieve together." 

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