MEET SCOTTISH YOUTH THEATRE’S NEW chair of the board – joan parr
Hello everyone,
It’s a real privilege to introduce myself as the new chair of Scottish Youth Theatre. My name is Joan Parr, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining this vibrant, creative community.
I have been following the journey of SYT professionally and personally for at least 20 years. I have always been excited by its energy, the opportunities it provides for the empowerment and creative development of young artists to tell their own stories with confidence and authenticity, as well as its inclusive ethos.
My own life has always been rooted in a love for the arts and a belief in its power to transform and enrich lives. Over the years I’ve worked alongside creative teams, community groups and emerging artists, and I’ve seen at firsthand how theatre can spark imagination, build resilience and create lasting connections. I’m passionate about ensuring that every young person, no matter what their background, has the opportunity to explore their creativity and develop their own unique voice.

As Chair, my role is to support the brilliant work already taking place here; to act as a champion for the organisation and to help create the conditions where it and the young people it supports can thrive. I want Scottish Youth Theatre to continue being a place where artists feel safe to experiment, collaborate and take creative risks – where their perspectives shape the stories we tell and the way we tell them. And, ultimately, where creative development happens.
I know the coming months and years will bring exciting projects, bold performances and new opportunities to connect with each other and with audiences across Scotland. I’m here to collaborate with the team to make sure creativity and inclusivity are at the heart of everything we do.
Thank you for the welcome I have received so far. I can’t wait to see the incredible work that the SYT community creates and how we make it grow and thrive together.
Best wishes
Joan
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