Our Board — Theatr Iolo

Jonny Cotsen (Chair)

Jonny Cotsen is a qualified Art teacher but left his professional career to develop himself as a performance artist and consultant for inclusion in the arts. Jonny is a keen advocate for better access in the Arts and wrote the Arts Council Wales’ Toolkit for venues and theatre companies, which provides guidance on how to improve access for Deaf audiences in Wales. He also runs inclusive drama workshops and is a Deaf Equality trainer for people with and without disabilities.

Jonny enjoys public speaking and enjoys being on panel discussions on access provision in the arts. Jonny performs with ‘Louder Is Not Always Clearer’ which is produced and directed by Mr and Mrs Clark. ‘Louder Is Not Always Clearer’ has been touring extensively across the UK as well as Poland and France as well as a successful run at Edinburgh Fringe in 2019 since its inception at Chapter Arts 2018. His other performing credits include: ‘English' (Quarantine and National Theatre Wales), ‘Ways Of Being Together’ (Jo Fong), Cardiff: City Road Stories (Sherman Theatre).

“I was really excited when I had the opportunity to join Theatr Iolo board of trustees, not only I could offer my skills in terms of inclusion and access but it is a company that I have admired for a long time. I have always loved their work and what they do for young audiences which is meaningful, impactful and exciting. Having met the board of trustees and their staff (online!), it feels like a safe space where we can openly discuss and share our views. I am thrilled to be part of this and I hope I can my a difference to their vision.”

Angharad Thomas

Angharad is a communications strategist with a background in brand building and behaviour change campaigns. She currently leads the Strategy & Insights team at Golley Slater Communications Agency, based in Cardiff. Angharad is a Welsh speaker and is very proud to be on the Theatr Iolo board championing the Welsh language and supporting the fantastic team with the marketing of its productions.

“Some of my fondest memories from my school days involve going to or being part of theatre productions. I love that Theatr Iolo works tirelessly to bring meaningful and stimulating art to young people, including those who have never had the opportunity to experience live theatre before. Going to any performance produced by Theatr Iolo is an absolute treat - it takes me back to the surprise and delight I felt as a child. And it’s been even more wonderful to see that delight in my little toddler, as she begins to experience theatre for the first time.”

Natalie Lawley

Natalie Lawley is a Senior Associate in Blake Morgan LLP’s Real Estate team. Natalie advises and acts on behalf of private, public and charitable organisations in their commercial property dealings.

During her spare time, Natalie enjoys attending gigs, art exhibitions, shows and trying out new creative pursuits. Natalie is part of a national book club. Natalie also loves spending time outdoors with her two children.

“From my very first meeting with the Board of Trustees of Theatr Iolo, the aims and ethos of this established organisation left me feeling inspired and energised to assist with future projects and help the theatre deliver its goals. Amidst the global challenges of the last few years, I was so impressed with how Theatr Iolo has remained resilient and dedicated to its outreach ambitions of bringing performing arts to communities across Wales, nationally and internationally. It is a truly inspiring organisation making an impact within the Welsh arts scene and beyond.”

Kate Perridge

Kate is an independent Theatre & Dance Producer and Arts Consultant. She is Executive Producer for Jones the Dance, and has previously worked with National Dance Company Wales, Wales Millennium Centre, Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, Sherman Theatre, Living Pictures, Flossy & Boo, Tanio and Reckless Sleepers, as well as previously working as a Producer for Theatr Iolo. She has produced work touring across the UK and internationally to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Armenia, China and India amongst others.

Kate was previously Chair of Wales Arts Review, a Trustee for Made in Wales Stage Company, Creu Cymru, and was Chair of the Creu Cymru Drama Consortium.

“For many years I have loved the work of Theatr Iolo, and am so happy to be now working with the company as a Trustee.

I am passionate about the vital role that the arts has to play in impacting society and benefitting specific communities, especially as a means to inspire imagination in young people. The work of Theatr Iolo is exceptional in engaging young people in new and innovative ways and I look forward to working with the team.”

Victoria Edwards

Victoria is a professional actor and has spent the past 30 years working in theatre, television, film, and radio. She is also a qualified teacher and has taught in both primary and secondary Welsh language schools around Cardiff.

In her spare time she enjoys yoga, paddle-boarding and is even learning ballet.

“I believe that children’s lives are enriched by live, high-quality theatre. In a digital age, where so many pupils’ experiences are online, the theatre has a key role in challenging their thoughts, ambitions, and imagination. I am thrilled to be joining Theatr Iolo and am eager to contribute to their mission.”

Amelia Hatfield

Amelia is an analyst with Admiral Group Plc, helping to look after future talent strategy. She has been with the company for three years and has done a number of roles, contributing to her breadth of business knowledge. She started in their office in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada and has recently moved to Cardiff to work in the head office.

Outside of work, Amelia enjoys running, travelling, and spending time with her dog, Gus, who also made the move from Canada with her. For Amelia travelling and music go hand-in-hand and she loves experiencing gigs and music in different parts of the world.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of Theatr Iolo as a trustee. It was clear from the first meeting I attended that there was a strong sense of purpose, passion, and community on the board, and I look forward to contributing to that. I’m excited to learn more about the arts community while also playing a part in the company through the board, sharing my business experience and helping give back to the community wherever possible. I love that Theatr Iolo aims to help children make sense of the world around them, helping them find their place within it through the arts, encouraging them to learn, explore and open up about themselves.”