Capital Theatres launches the search for a new Chair of its Board as current Chair Professor Dame Joan Stringer steps down following a remarkable 13-year tenure.
Since her appointment in 2013, Joan has helped Scotland’s largest theatre charity navigate a period of exceptional growth and unprecedented challenges.
Joan guided Capital Theatres through the 2020 pandemic closures, turning quickly to digital engagement to maintain connections with audiences and creative engagement participants — particularly through its dementia friendly programme.
Capital Theatres has delivered record-breaking programming and audience numbers. In 2024–25, we welcomed over 400,000 people attended 263 performances across 45 productions. In 2023, Joan presided over the charity’s most successful year, featuring Hamilton and Mary Poppins.
Joan was instrumental in getting the King’s Theatre redevelopment off the ground to save this special venue and she played a key role in the development and introduction of Capital Theatres’ renewed strategy and business plan in 2024, setting out ambitious goals for programming, audience development, inclusivity and environmental sustainability.
Fiona Gibson, Chief Executive of Capital Theatres, said:
“Capital Theatres is truly privileged to have had Professor Dame Joan Stringer as its Chair for the last remarkable 13 years. She is the consummate professional, having brought so much to bear during her tenure as evidenced by the legacy she leaves – an organisation that is resilient, ambitious and a central cog in bringing the best of the performing arts across all scales to our wonderful capital city.
Her leadership has seen us through the challenges of the pandemic, safeguarded a critical Edinburgh cultural landmark in the King’s Theatre and ensured that Capital Theatres continues to enrich the lives of thousands across the capital city and beyond. Joan’s commitment to our people, our audiences and our buildings has ensured that Capital Theatres not only thrives today but is ready to jump with confidence into our next exciting chapter. She leaves an astounding legacy and big shoes to fill, for which we will always be truly grateful.”
