Press Releases

AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP APPOINTS NEW PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR

Issued : 12 April 2002

The Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), one of the largest theatre groups in the UK, is strengthening its programming operations with a re-structured department and the appointment of a new overall programming director for the group.

Michael Lynas, currently ATG’s regional programming director and the Chief Executive of ATG’s Milton Keynes Theatre will head up the new department, which merges the regional and West End programming operations, and will be based at the Duke of York’s Theatre in London. Michael will be in charge of the programming in ATG’s West End venues, and will oversee regional programming. A regional programming manager will also be appointed.

Howard Panter, ATG’s Managing Director said “This is a key appointment within the group, and I am delighted that Michael will be taking overall charge for the programming in all ATG’s venues, supported by a new regional programming manager. Michael has done a wonderful job in looking after the regional venues, and I know that he will bring a lot of determination and expertise to his new responsibilities.”

Michael Lynas said “This is a tremendous opportunity and I am very much looking forward to leading ATG’s new programming department. Integrating the regional and West End operations will strengthen the department as a whole, and allow ATG to continue to secure top quality product for all our theatres.”

Michael has worked for ATG since 1998 when he was appointed Chief Executive of Milton Keynes Theatre. Previously at Chichester Festival Theatre where he gained extensive production experience, Michael was then the Director at Richmond Theatre for six years. He oversaw the launch of Milton Keynes, which has become one of the most successful theatres in the country. In April 2000, Michael took over ATG’s regional programming (the West End operation being headed by Robert Cogo Fawcett, who leaves ATG this summer).

It is intended that a new Chief Executive for Milton Keynes Theatre will recruited in the autumn. In the meantime, the day to day running of the theatre will be managed by Simon Pearce and John Young, currently theatre manager and technical manager respectively .

Back to Press Releases