News

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch are proud to announce that Mathew Russell, the Executive Director of the Theatre, has been awarded a Mayor’s Civic Award in recognition of his services to the community. For many years the Mayors of the London Borough of Havering have, at their discretion, recognised certain citizens in the Borough whom it was felt had distinguished themselves by service to the community. The presentation ceremony took place last Friday at Havering Town Hall, and Mathew was presented the award by Councillor John Mylod, Mayor of the London Borough of Havering. It was a fascinating, and often moving occasion, hearing about the efforts and achievements of a range of brilliant leaders, workers and volunteers. “In accepting any such award, I very much did so on behalf of all the‎ extraordinary achievements of our staff, casuals and freelancers, the wisdom of our wonderful Board, the colleagues I work alongside as part of Havering Changing, the support of our stakeholders and donors, and of everyone who uses the Theatre, as audience member, artist or participant.  ‎What was very heartening about the occasion was the number of people who came up to me to speak about the Theatre after the ceremony, and the many lovely stories told.‎ It was another sign of how much admiration the charity is held in by many people. And the pride shone through as the citation described our role in putting the borough firmly in the spotlight. It's always so great to see local authorities recognising the vital part culture plays in placemaking.” Mathew Russell, Executive Director – Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch