Storyhouse appoints Annabel Turpin as new chief executive

Storyhouse has appointed Annabel Turpin as its new chief executive.

Turpin joins from ARC in Stockton, where she has been chief executive for the past 15 years. She replaces Andrew Bentley, who announced in February he was stepping down after 17 years.

She joins the Chester-based venue in October, and said: "I can’t wait to make Chester my home, and join the fantastic team at Storyhouse. It’s already established as a key local institution, and I’m excited to work with local partners and communities to build on its success.”

Turpin is also co-director of Future Arts Centres – a network of arts spaces. She also launched and chairs Venues North, a group of 45-plus venues from across the north committed to helping artists get their work seen more widely. 

She joins Storyhouse as it prepares to launch its new three-year strategy.
David Watson, chair of Storyhouse board of trustees, said: “After an extensive search, we are truly delighted that Annabel is joining the Storyhouse family as chief executive this autumn. She comes with an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience as well as a sound reputation as an inspirational leader brimming with vision and passion." 

He added: "Annabel proved herself to be an exceptional candidate and demonstrated a clear respect for the organisation’s roots and local importance, while sharing our ambition for the future which sees Storyhouse continue to widen its reach and increase its impact across communities as well as engage, entertain and inspire the nation and the rest of the world through our outstanding work across all our stages and spaces.”