Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced the appointment of Matthew Turbett as its new Executive Director and Joint CEO.
Turbett will join the organisation in August 2026, taking over from Amy Belson, who is leaving to become CEO of Luton Cultural Trust.
He joins the Lyric from ATG Entertainment, where he served as General Manager at both the Savoy Theatre and the Phoenix Theatre.
Prior to that, he worked with English Touring Opera and held roles across London’s fringe theatre scene, including at the Bunker Theatre.
Matthew Turbett said: “I have always known the Lyric to be a home of high quality and ambitious theatre.
“With its deep local roots throughout Hammersmith & Fulham and the multi-purpose use of its public building, there is so much that uniquely places the Lyric to create powerful civic value in a Borough that is continually evolving.
“Rachel’s diverse seasons of work, their flagship artist development programmes and partnerships across the community and industry make for an ambitious organisation that I am thrilled to be joining. Huge thanks to Amy for all the work during her tenure, which I’m excited to continue.”
Artistic Director Rachel O’Riordan welcomed the appointment and paid tribute to the outgoing Executive Director.
She said: “I am delighted to begin working with Matthew. His varied experience, energy and evident passion for great theatre are going to be invaluable as we continue the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre’s journey, with our brilliant team and vibrant audience.
“I am indebted to Amy Belson for the great work she has done at Lyric, and have so valued our close working relationship. I wish her every success in her exciting new role.”
Chair of the Board of Trustees Lorraine Heggessey added: “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am delighted to welcome Matthew to the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre as our new Executive Director. Matthew comes to us with a wealth of leadership experience in both commercial and subsidised work, and demonstrates a clear commitment to ensuring the arts remain accessible to all. His impressive track record in theatre management alongside his exceptional financial acumen make him the ideal partner to support the ambitious creative vision of our Artistic Director, Rachel O’Riordan, as her Joint CEO. I look forward to working with both of them as they lead the Lyric through the next exciting phase of its journey, bringing the outstanding work both on and off-stage to audiences in West London and beyond.”
The appointment marks a new chapter for the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre as it continues its mission to produce bold, community-focused theatre and support emerging talent.
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