Liverpool & Merseyside Theatres Trust, the charity behind the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, is delighted to announce the appointment in 2025 of Camilla Mankabady as its new Chair. Camilla has served on the Board for several years, most recently as Vice Chair, and now steps into the role following the end of Andrea Nixon’s tenure as Chair.
Camilla brings a wealth of experience in leadership, communications, and cultural advocacy. An accomplished former national TV journalist, she held senior editorial roles at BBC News, ITV News, and Euronews/NBC, earning national recognition including a BAFTA nomination in 2018 for her programme’s coverage of the Grenfell Tower disaster. After returning to her hometown of Liverpool, Camilla transformed the city’s Communications and Marketing before becoming the first Strategic Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. Alongside her professional achievements, she is a passionate supporter of the arts, serving on the Board of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
On news of her appointment, Camilla Mankabady said:
“I am delighted and honoured to be announced as the new Chair of the Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse Theatres. Theatre has been a passion of mine since childhood; that feeling of wonder and connection that great drama can spark has shaped who I am. I look forward to working closely with the Chief Executive Mark Da Vanzo, the Creative Director Nathan Powell, the Finance Director Ros Thomas and the rest of the team and trustees to help steer these extraordinary theatres into another great era. Together, we will build on their rich heritage, nurture new talent, and continue to bring bold, imaginative work to the residents of our city and beyond.”
Mark Da Vanzo, CEO for the theatres added:
“We’re thrilled to announce the appointment of Camilla Mankabady as our new Chair. She brings outstanding strategic leadership, a deep commitment to our region’s culture, and a proven record of amplifying its voice. Her expertise will be instrumental in guiding the Board and advancing the Trust’s mission. I would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Andrea Nixon for her outstanding service and dedication as outgoing Chair. With Camilla’s appointment, we look forward to building on Andrea’s legacy and continuing to strengthen our theatres and the creative sector across Liverpool City Region and beyond.”
The Trust also names existing Trustee Laura Collier as Co-Vice Chair; alongside Paul Evans, already serving in the role. An Independent Creative Director and Executive Producer, Laura has held senior roles across leading UK arts organisations, including Shakespeare North Playhouse, the National Theatre, Battersea Arts Centre, and the Traverse Theatre.
On announcing her appointment, Laura Collier said:
“I’m honoured to be appointed Co-Vice Chair of the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatres. As the Board welcome Camilla
To find out more about the work of the Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse and the role of their Trustees, visit www.everymanplayhouse.com/