The new chief executive of Lowestoft's Marina Theatre has pledged to bring an 'exciting, diverse and vibrant programme' to the venue.

Lee Henderson has taken over the top role at the theatre, taking the place vacated by Martin Halliday last summer.

Mr Henderson - most recently general manager at the Theatre Royal Stratford East, in London - said he was 'proud to be leading this wonderful theatre'.

He added: 'I'm committed to creating new collaborations and building on existing partnerships to ensure we offer our audience and visitors the very best entertainment and that we continue to reach even more people with an exciting, diverse and vibrant programme.

'I look forward to working with the board, the talented team, volunteers and the wider community as we build our next chapter together.'

During his time at Theatre Royal Stratford East, Mr Henderson was responsible for developing new and existing commercial activities, leading a major refurbishment of the auditorium and ensuring the successful procurement of a new studio and café.

He has also worked in producing and general management for numerous West End, Broadway and touring companies.

He takes over at the Marina during a busy time, with a full calendar of productions at the theatre in 2016 including Footloose and The Gruffalo's Child, as well as comedians Jimmy Carr and Al Murray.

David Blyth, chairman of the Marina Theatre Trust, said: 'Lee Henderson joins the Marina Theatre at a very exciting time.

'We now have an experienced senior management team, and Lee has all the qualities needed to take the team and the theatre to new exciting heights, continuing to grow the quality of our offer, and build on our loyal audience numbers.'

See next week's Journal for an interview with Mr Henderson about his plans for the role.

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