Peterborough’s much-loved venue for music, comedy, theatre and family entertainment, The Cresset, has announced the appointment of its new Director – with Joe Flavin taking up the role this autumn

Joe, who is coming from The Core at Corby Cube, where he was Director, is bringing with him a wealth of experience working with arts and theatre venues that are at the very heart of their communities.

Nearly 50 years after opening its doors, The Cresset remains true to its original ethos of inclusion and community focus. As part of YMCA Trinity Group, all year-end profits go back into the charity’s work, which directly supports young and vulnerable people; giving them a safe place to belong, participate and contribute.

Jonathan Martin, Chief Executive of YMCA Trinity Group, says: “I'm delighted to welcome Joe Flavin as the new Director of The Cresset. Joe brings energy, vision and a wealth of experience in programming, venue management and community arts. I'm confident he will continue to build on The Cresset's strong foundations to make it an even more vibrant and welcoming place for everyone in Peterborough.

“The Cresset is so much more than a theatre. As part of YMCA Trinity Group, it's a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, be inspired, and feel they belong. Joe shares our commitment to making sure the arts are open to the whole community, and I'm excited to see what he and the team will achieve.”

Jonathan added: “I'd also like to pay tribute to Louise Chantal, whose leadership has strengthened the programme and grown audiences. Louise originally joined us on an interim basis, but ended up staying for two years! She leaves The Cresset in great shape, and we're hugely grateful for everything she has contributed.”

With The Cresset’s 50-year reputation for arts and culture within the city and a strong vision for the future, it’s an exciting time to be involved. Joe Flavin explains: “I am delighted to be joining the brilliant team at The Cresset this November. It is clear that The Cresset has both young people and community at its heart and I'm looking forward to developing an exciting programme of events and engagement opportunities throughout this brilliant venue in the coming months.”

Joe will continue to develop The Cresset’s community activities and build upon its strengths – such as its well-known performing arts programme for young people and the wider community – and to work in partnership with local stakeholders across Peterborough to provide access for everyone to arts and culture.