Professor lands top job at Buxton Opera House

Professor Judy Simons, who has an extensive background in university senior management, has been appointed to chair the board for the High Peak Theatre Trust which runs both entertainment venues.

Judy, who lives in Bakewell, has been a long-standing supporter of Buxton Opera House and believes the theatre is at an exciting point in its development.

With Paul Kerryson as chief executive, and the investment in the town as a whole, she sees this as a perfect time to develop the future of the opera house.

She said: “This is an opportunity for me to come and help a theatre which I’ve loved for a very long time. I believe the theatre is the jewel in the crown of Buxton. There is a big regeneration programme in Buxton now and the theatre is right at the heart of that.”

Professor Simons has chaired a number of national bodies and most recently held the role of deputy chair and governor at Sheffield Hallam University. She was also pro vice-chancellor at De Montfort University.

Her first trip to the theatre at the age of five captivated her and cemented her passion for the theatre. Judy’s belief in the transformative power of the creative arts and its central role in the community are infectious.

She has taken over from Carol Prowse who has been involved with Buxton Opera House for more than 30 years.

Carol said: “With the teams’ continuing support Buxton Opera House and the Pavilion Arts Centre will continue to thrive. The opera house has been an important part of my life and one which I will continue to support in the years to come.”