Bill Kenwright to Give Keynote Speech at UK Theatre Touring Symposium

UK Theatre has announced that Bill Kenwright, one of the UK's most successful theatre producers, will deliver the keynote speech at its 7th annual Touring Symposium, sponsored by leading theatre consultancy, Charcoalblue. With over a month to go, demand for the event is high and over 200 people have already booked their place on this year's event.

Taking place at the Congress Centre in central London on Thursday 20 March 2014, delegates will also hear from Michelle Dickson, Arts Council England's new Director of Touring, along with provocations given from leading industry professionals including Rachel Tackley, English Touring Theatre and President of UK Theatre; Henny Finch, Headlong; Conrad Lynch, Ambassador Theatre Group; Stephan Stockton, Earthfall; Gavin Stride, Farnham Maltings; David Harradine, Fevered Sleep and Peter Wilson, PW Productions. More speakers and provocateurs are to be confirmed.

Major changes are being made to this year's event which has established itself as the key forum for debate on the development of the UK touring industry. There will be more chances for venue managers, producers and directors to get their voices heard in an informed and important debate and a better opportunity for UK Theatre and others to listen and act on the views of the industry. An informal networking drinks reception will take place the night before the Symposium hosted by Charcoalblue to celebrate their 10th birthday.

UK Theatre Executive Director David Brownlee commented "The phenomenal number of bookings at this stage demonstrates the levels of interest and concern in the sector regarding touring. This is the best opportunity for venues, producers and funders to come together, have their voice heard and collectively work out creative solutions to some really complex problems."

Andy Hayles, Managing Partner, Charcoalblue said: " I have always been impressed by the quality of this event, the excellent speakers relating first-hand experience and the robust and often entertaining input from the delegates. I'm delighted that we have the opportunity to support the conference for a second year, to further demonstrate our commitment to theatre in the UK and to share a great day of thinking and debate. I'm looking forward to being provoked!"

A limited number of places are remaining for the Symposium. For more details or to book please visit www.uktheatre.org/touring2014 or contact UK Theatre at events@soltukt.co.uk or on 020 7557 6708.

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