Jake Smith appointed as new Artistic Director & CEO

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jake Smith as Artistic Director & CEO of the company.

In a statement, Smith said: "I am delighted to become Artistic Director & CEO of Eastern Angles and join the thriving arts ecology of East Anglia. Eastern Angles is an organisation that creates brilliant, innovative productions, with inspirational artists that delight audiences in East Anglia and across the UK. In addition to the magic that is created with its productions, it does an incredible amount of work with communities through their Learning, Education and Participation department in Ipswich, Peterborough and on tour. Being able to combine these huge passions of mine and lead such a dynamic team makes this my dream job."

“Lastly, on a personal note, East Anglia holds a very special place in my heart. It shares similarities with my native place of birth in the North East, a landscape of historic sites, a vast maritime history and a thriving cultural landscape. I cannot wait to get to know the audiences, creatives and communities of East Anglia better as we create the next chapter in Eastern Angles future and continue to be a pioneering company with a strong advocacy for the communities we work with."

Speaking about the appointment, Eastern Angles current Chair of Trustees Alison Stewart MBE said: “Ivan Cutting found and has led Eastern Angles for 40 years. This is a phenomenal achievement. In Jake, we have found someone to take the company forward on its continuing journey giving a voice to the people of East Anglia who have a story to tell, as yet untold.”

Outgoing Artistic Director Ivan Cutting said: “In Jake Smith we have found a kindred spirit - his skill and enthusiasm for creating work with a sense of place augurs well for the company’s future as Eastern Angles continues to tour to all corners of this unique and special region. I wish Jake all the luck in the world and look forward to seeing what he and the company create in the years to come. Exciting times ahead!"