Blue Apple appoints new trustees

Blue Apple Theatre, a Winchester-based theatre company for learning-disabled performers, has appointed LUCY TOMLINSON and EMMA TAYLOR to its board of trustees.

Tomlinson is currently the Trusts and Foundations Manager at MAST Mayflower Studios and has previously served on boards with La Folia in Salisbury and SoCo Music Project in Southampton.

Taylor is a post-doctoral research fellow with a healthcare and project management background. She has worked in the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) charity sector for over 15 years and is a member of the committee for neurodiversity and learning support at the University of Surrey.

Tomlinson said she is “excited” to start working with Blue Apple and committed to creating “opportunities for people with learning disabilities to express themselves and find joy and connection in the performing arts."

Taylor added, "I passionately believe that the arts can challenge discrimination and prejudice. 

"I'm looking forward to working with Blue Apple to create work that raises awareness of the issues facing people with learning disabilities and inspires others to make a difference."

Blue Apple Theatre was founded in 2005 by JANE JESSOP and her son, TOMMY JESSOP, to create acting and performing opportunities for people with a learning disability who cannot access mainstream activities.

Professor ED ROCHEAD, Chair of the Blue Apple Board of Trustees, said he was “thrilled” with the new appointees. He said, “They bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to our organisation."