Claire Simpson

Claire Simpson is an experienced strategic leader, with an established career in theatre management. Since 2006 she has worked for a range of arts organisations across London and the Midlands. Most recently, Claire has served as Relationship Manager for Theatre at Arts Council England since 2017. In this role she has worked on a range of funding programmes, supporting and championing both organisations and independent artists.

Her earlier career includes senior leadership positions as General Manager for the Belgrade Theatre Coventry, Paines Plough, and the Gate Theatre in Notting Hill. She began her professional journey in theatre as Front of House Manager and Deputy Bar and Food Manager at the Royal Court Theatre.

Claire has also made meaningful contributions in a voluntary capacity. She has served as a trustee of the Independent Theatre Council and the theatre company curious directive, where she later became Chair of the Board, overseeing a successful National Portfolio Organisation application.

A passionate advocate for accessibility in the arts, Claire has been a qualified Audio Describer since 2019, working on productions with VocalEyes at renowned venues including The Bridge Theatre, Gielgud Theatre, and Wales Millennium Centre.