Mercury Theatre names next artistic director

Mercury Theatre Colchester has announced that NATASHA RICKMAN will be its next artistic director, taking up the post in January 2025.

Rickman, who grew up in Colchester and was a member of Mercury’s young company, worked as an actor before founding the theatre company A Seat by the Window.

She has directed for theatres, including English Theatre Frankfurt, Guildford Shakespeare Company, Southwark Playhouse, Edinburgh Festival and Jermyn Street Theatre, as well as site-specific productions and online live digital experiences.

Rickman said she was “delighted” to join Mercury, calling the venue “the springboard” that launched her artistic career.

“I have been lucky enough to work in almost every department of the building over the years,” said Rickman, “from dressing, follow spot and creative education through to the work onstage.

“I look forward to building on the theatre’s national reputation for ambitious and exciting work, proudly created from its Essex roots. Having grown up in Colchester, I have experienced first-hand how the ongoing work of the Creative Engagement department provides opportunities to flourish through its youth theatre.”

STEVE MANNIX, executive director of Mercury Theatre, said Rickman would bring  “a genuine passion for new writing and a commitment to embracing local and regional talent—values that the Mercury proudly champions”, adding, “It’s wonderful to have her return to her Essex roots and step into this role”.