Printers Playhouse Arts CIC - Board of Trustees
Our Board of Trustees brings together a diverse group of people who share a commitment to our purpose, our community, and our future. They give their time, skills and experience to support our team, provide strategic direction, and ensure the organisation is well governed and sustainable.
This is a chance to meet each of our trustees and learn a little about who they are, what they bring to the Board, and why they care about the work we do.
you can also find out how to get involved in the board
Meet the Board
John Berry
FounderAs a playwright and director, John has developed and staged a wide range of work at Printers Playhouse, from intimate new plays to ambitious, site‑specific and community‑led projects. John is passionate about nurturing emerging talent and strengthening Eastbourne’s creative ecology through collaboration, inclusivity and high‑quality artistic work
John says: “I’m on the board because it’s full of wonderful, kind, artistic people who share my love for good music, good theatre and good times.”
Viv Berry
FounderViv Berry is a creative director, facilitator and producer with extensive experience in participatory theatre, music and community arts. A co‑founder and long‑standing director of Printers Playhouse, Viv has played a central role in shaping the organisation’s inclusive ethos and community‑led programming.
As a trustee, Viv brings deep organisational knowledge, creative leadership and a strong commitment to Printers Playhouse’s mission to be an accessible, vibrant and sustainable cultural, community hub.
Sarah Dean
Funding SpecialistCreative and strategic in equal measure, Sarah brings fresh ideas to every campaign. As a long standing supporter of Printers Playhouse and a former General Manager, Sarah has a deep knowledge of our day to day workings. Sarah is also an accomplished artist and regularly brings her eye for design to the table.
Gladeana McMahon
Friendly, attentive, and always ready to help, Gladeana is an active member and supporter of the Printers Playhouse Community.
Gladeana says: “I moved to Eastbourne in 2016. My creative side found it's home and I feel grateful to have found a space to creatively blossom and give back.“
Board Secretary
Chris Berry
FounderDespite not living locally Chris still finds time to support Printers Playhouse with his positivity and enthusiasm. Also a founding member Chris brings his deep knowledge of the business.
Alan Spence
MarketingAlan, a former drama teacher who ran his own theatre company and now focuses on writing plays, brings thoughtful artistic perspective, literary expertise and a strong belief in the power of the arts to provoke reflection, empathy and connection. He is committed to supporting bold, authentic work and to ensuring that creative spaces remain open, curious and welcoming to all.
Alan says: “I moved to Eastbourne in 2021, and feel blessed to be part of a vibrant arts community to indulge in my passions and most importantly, give something back.”
Al Staples
Chair of the Board of TrusteesWith a background in Digital Communications, Al utilises his knowledge and enthusiasm for the creative arts to help shape the vision for Printers Playhouse.
Al says: “I joined the board in 2024 having been bitten by the Printers bug. The community focus and encouragement that is embedded in this organisation is incredible. I am constantly in awe of the people who perform here. whether as actors, musicians or creative artists. Seeing how people grow with the support of Printers’ people never ceases to amaze me…
…Oh, and I love a bit of Karaoke on a Thursday too!”
It could be you!!
New board members are always welcome.Would you like to join us on this incredible journey?
Find out more about joining the Board of Trustees.