About
Laura Collier

With twenty-five years experience empowering artists and arts organisations to thrive, I drive artistic strategy and cultural change in our towns and cities.

From my base in Stockport, I advocate for arts and culture at a high level, working across the creative industries to develop best practice and build communities.

Senior Leadership roles include as the inaugural Creative Director of Shakespeare North Playhouse, a thirty-seven million pound capital project in Knowsley, Liverpool City Region; leading the National Theatre Studio, shaping an influential artist‑development programme that fuelled new ideas and talent across the sector; as Senior Producer at Battersea Arts Centre and the Traverse Theatre, which saw me drive innovative commissioning and year‑round programming.

As an independent Creative Director and Cultural Consultant, clients include: Leeds Playhouse, National Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and The Bluecoat.

Throughout my career, I have worked with artists as a Producer, Dramaturg and Script Editor - examples of which can be found here.

Expertise in Governance; Vice-Chair of the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, having previously served as a trustee of Northern Stage and Talawa.

Extensive national and international experience in public speaking, public-facing media, panel events, discussions and roundtables.

Judging panels include public art, playwriting and arts awards, including the Susan Smith Blackburn Award and the BBC One Show’s As You Write It.

Sector development work includes strategic advisory roles, notably as a member of Shakespeare’s Globe Creative Council and now as Associate Artist. Previously co-Chair of What Next? Greater Manchester Chapter.‍ ‍

Clore Leadership Fellow 25/26, seconded to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

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