A DUO of acclaimed Welsh theatre makers have taken on director roles at Theatr Clwyd.
The Mold-based theatre has announced that Francesca Goodridge and Daniel Lloyd have been appointed as their new interim associate directors, bringing additional creative experience and knowledge to the organisation.
Francesca was one of the first recipients of the Carne Traineeship for Directors in Wales. Her Theatr Clwyd productions include directing A Pretty Shitty Love and associate directing The Famous Five: A New Musical. She also trained on the National Theatre Directors Course.
Read more: What's on at Theatre Clwyd in 2023?
Daniel is a regular and well-loved performer in the Theatr Clwyd pantomime and was associate director on this year's Robin Hood, as well as having directed for Rondo Media and Theatr na n'Og. The pair have collaborated on numerous projects, including a new musical currently in development at Theatr Clwyd.
Francesca and Daniel said of their appointment: "Having been involved with Theatr Clwyd in a variety of projects and productions over the years we are delighted to be joining the organisation as associate directors.
Read more: Wrexham Council agrees to Stiwt Theatre three-year funding
"We will relish the opportunity to develop our voices both as a creative partnership and as individuals, as well as serving the many vital programmes and productions that are already underway.
"It's a hugely exciting time to join the theatre, at a time where the organisation is embracing new and promising change with its huge capital redevelopment programme and a new artistic director on the horizon.
"Together we are already working passionately towards several exciting new future projects including this year's pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, that, for one year only will take place in the Big Top Theatre.
Read more: Wrexham business supports theatre's community bursary project
"This will be a brand-new experience for our audiences - bringing them closer to the action than ever before and offering everything our pantomime fans love in a dynamic and exciting new venue.
Theatr Clwyd executive director Liam Evans-Ford welcomed the duo, adding: "We are delighted to have Fran and Dan joining us as associate directors. Both are brilliant theatre makers, and they have a strong working partnership outside of their involvement with Theatr Clwyd.
The appointment of Fran and Dan means we continue to develop training and leadership opportunities for Welsh theatre makers, and that we have some artistic continuity as we step through the appointment of a new artistic director. I look forward to working with them both in their new roles."
The pair will focus on supporting and developing the artistic work of Theatr Clwyd including award-winning community outreach work as well as leading on specific projects.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here