Norwich Theatre Royal's chief executive is set to take on a leading role in helping to shape and nurture the arts across 13 counties.
In addition to his role at the helm of the city theatre, Stephen Crocker has been appointed to the South East Area Council of Arts Council England, the national body which plays a leading role in helping to boost, fund and support the arts across the country.
Working with colleagues from across the arts and culture sector and senior local government representatives, Mr Crocker will use his expertise and knowledge of issues locally, regionally and nationally to help support future strategies.
He said: 'I am absolutely passionate about developing the arts and cultural sector, particularly across the east of England and especially about ensuring it has the widest possible impact and resonance in terms of place, economy and society.
'This is something we are very much focussed upon within Norwich Theatre Royal, Playhouse and Stage Two through our new and ambitious artistic strategy which focuses on dance, drama, classical music and the creation of extraordinary cultural experiences for the people of Norwich and Norfolk.
'Our learning and participation team are also working hard to engage with new audiences and provide even more opportunities to those of all ages and backgrounds.
Mr Crocker, who was previously deputy chief executive of The Lowry, has been chief executive of Norwich Theatre Royal for 18 months.
He is also a board member of Albert Kennedy Trust, Blackpool Grand Theatre, Dance Consortium, Manchester Pride, New Anglia Culture Board and The Touring Partnership.
Michael Newey, Norwich Theatre Royal Trust's chairman, said: 'Since Stephen joined us, he has led an impressive period of progress for the organisation.
' This has included the development and implementation of a bold new three-year strategy that will grow and develop our role as one of the country's leading arts organisations rooted in Norwich, but having an impact regionally across Norfolk and East Anglia.
'I am delighted that Stephen will now begin to play a role in helping to shape arts and cultural policy more widely with the Arts Council.'
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