Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre Appoints New Head of Creative Learning

The belovèd Glasgow institution that is the Citizen’s Theatre, whose Gorbals home is currently undergoing major redevelopment, has announced the appointment of Dr Catrin Evans to lead their learning and community engagement programme. 

Dr Evansis a theatre-maker, academic and activist based in Glasgow. She has worked for Scotland’s leading theatre companies and is Artistic Director of A Moment’s Peace Theatre Company, who deliver socially-engaged, participatory arts projects with under-represented communities across Scotland. 

She said “I am passionate about widening access to theatre and performance, and supporting artists and yet-to-be-artists to create new work that reflects the multiplicity of experiences within contemporary Scotland. The Citizens Theatre’s international reputation combined with its plans to expand creative learning initiatives through the redevelopment of the building, means that it is in a unique position to play an integral role in instigating real, long-term change within the sector. I can’t wait to play my part in leading that change alongside the brilliant work currently being delivered every day by the Citizens Learning team.”

Citizen’s Artistic Director, Dominic Hill said “I am delighted to welcome Catrin to the Citizens’ team. Her passion and dedication for social justice through engagement in the arts is exceptional, both as an artist and a leader in community engagement. Our learning programme has provided lifeline support and respite to communities and individuals across Glasgow during the pandemic. Catrin’s expertise and connections with grassroots community organisations will ensure she leads our learning and engagement work in exciting new directions as we prepare to open our redeveloped building in 2022.”

The Citizen’s Theatre was opened in 1878 and is a category B listed building that holds a special place in the heart of Glaswegians. The £22m project redevelopment, funded by    Glasgow City Council, Scottish Government, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Creative Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland, will provide improved accessibility, secure the heritage of the building’s Victorian features, and offer new bar and café facilities as well as rehearsal, learning and studio spaces. Its re-opening is anticipated for 2022.

Irene Brown