There are some exciting changes happening at Festive Road – all aimed at helping us to become stronger, both financially and artistically.
Firstly, after 14 months at the helm, Yvette Lamidey has stepped down as Chair. Yvette took this decision as she is unable to give Festive Road the necessary time and attention, as the business is growing and she is travelling far more than in the past. Speaking on behalf of the Directors and artists at Festive Road, Simon Tipping said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Yvette for her hard work and commitment to Festive Road; together with the time and energy she has invested into the company. Her input and direction have increased our profile and visibility; and put us on a strong footing moving forward. We wish her all the very best in her future endeavours.”
Festive Road is delighted to announce that Martine Frost, a current Trustee/Advisor has accepted the invitation to step up to fill the role of Chair. Commenting on her appointment, Martine said, “I am very excited about taking on this role with Festive Road and hope that I can continue Yvette’s great work to help make Festive Road one of the leading artistic companies within the UK and beyond!”
To help with growth and stability, Festive Road is also restructuring internally. The company will now be run by two directors, with Jessica Rost as Artistic Director; and Simon Tipping becoming Education/Community Director. Paul Smith, Clive Doherty, and Shelly Colbourne will be Festive Road’s Resident Artistic Associates; with other external Artistic Associates continuing to work in collaboration on various events and projects.
Louise Evans will become Business Manager and act as liaison with Festive Road’s business associates, clients, and local and national arts organisations.
Speaking of these changes, Jessica Rost said: “The climate is very difficult for arts organisations at the moment and the last couple of years have not been without their challenges. We’re very lucky at Festive Road to be working with such an awesome team and we have a lot of amazing projects and events planned over the next 18 months. It is important that the business has a strong infrastructure to support this creativity. I think this new structure is just what we need. ”
