The Roses is delighted to welcome Stephen Lambe as our new Interim Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Stephen is no stranger to the theatre. Having lived and worked in central Tewkesbury since 2005, he has been a regular visitor for cinema, comedy and theatre. He first became a business patron before joining the Board, drawn to The Roses’ friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

“I’ve always loved the atmosphere at The Roses,” Stephen says. “Our volunteers are so warm and approachable – everyone is welcome here, and that’s what makes the theatre so special.”do

A Vision for The Roses

As Interim Chair, Stephen is passionate about strengthening The Roses’ role at the heart of the community. Over the coming years, his focus will be on:

· Encouraging as many people as possible to be part of the theatre, whether as audiences, participants or supporters.

· Expanding outreach projects and creative programmes.

· Ensuring financial sustainability for the future – a vital priority, as The Roses is the only theatre in Gloucestershire with no core funding.

“The Roses should always be for the people,” Stephen explains. “It’s about being useful and accessible, both to those in Tewkesbury and to people from across the borough and beyond.”

A Wealth of Experience

Stephen brings with him decades of experience across the arts, business and public life. He runs a successful publishing company specialising in music and history, has co-promoted major rock festivals in Chepstow, and has made numerous media appearances as a freelance journalist and podcaster.

Earlier in his career, Stephen served as Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee in Swindon, where he was responsible for leisure centres and arts facilities during a challenging period of change. His leadership style – informal, collaborative and well-informed – is one that values integrity, decency and working together.

Priorities as Interim Chair

In his new role, Stephen’s immediate priorities include supporting The Roses’ new Director as they step into post, guiding the Board through a period of transition, and ensuring the theatre continues to grow its financial resilience.

“My role is to be an advocate for The Roses,” Stephen says. “You’ll see me around the building – approachable, collaborative and passionate about making sure this theatre remains a place where everyone feels they belong.”

Looking Ahead

Stephen is particularly enthusiastic about The Roses’ work in Creative Health and its commitment to making the arts accessible to people of all abilities and backgrounds. He also sees the theatre as playing a vital role in Tewkesbury’s economic and cultural development.

“Now is the time to back The Roses,” Stephen adds. “We’re building something ambitious and sustainable – a theatre that belongs to its community, with the strength and vision to make a lasting impact for years to come.”