The Albany Theatre Trust has welcomed a new Theatre Director to lead the next stage in its development.

Alan Pollock, a nationally renowned playwright and television writer (who wrote regular episodes of the long-running police drama, The Bill amongst others), has stepped in at short notice to replace CEO and Artistic Director, Kevin Shaw, who recently left his post.

Alan served on the Board of the Belgrade Theatre for over a decade and has a deep understanding of the city and its communities. He has written many screenplays and dramas, including the most successful new play in the Belgrade Theatre’s history, One Night in November. Alan, who has worked at senior levels in theatre across the country, is eager to make a big contribution:

Alan comments: “The Albany – or College Theatre as it was – has played a major role in Coventry all my life. It was one of only two theatres to host a permanent repertory company when the Arts Council was formed in 1945 – the company that then moved to The Belgrade in 1958. It has also been the main centre for community arts in the city for generations. With the fantastic new facilities that have been opened recently, it is perfectly placed to move to new heights in the coming years. I have always wanted to play a leading role in a professionally managed community theatre. To get the chance to do so in my home town is such a thrill. ”