Kenton Theatre celebrates the people shaping its future this Trustees’ Week

From the Royal Opera House and Henley Festival to the worlds of finance, film and business, seven dedicated volunteers are helping secure the future of Henley’s historic theatre.

As charities across the UK celebrate Trustees’ Week (9–13 NOV), The Kenton is recognising the seven individuals who generously give their time, skills and expertise to help guide one of Henley’s most treasured cultural landmarks.

The celebrations come just days after The Kenton marked its 221st birthday, a reminder of the remarkable history its trustees are helping to protect.

First opening its doors in 1805, The Kenton has entertained generations of audiences. Today, as a registered charity, its future depends not only on the performances taking place on stage, but also on the dedicated people working behind the scenes.

Seven trustees, a wealth of experience

Chaired by Dennis Oliver, whose career spans engineering, finance and senior business management, The Kenton’s Board brings together an impressive range of experience and a shared passion for the arts.

Julie Deadman contributes extensive human resources expertise, while Rachael O’Sullivan, Environmental Manager at the Royal Opera House, brings specialist knowledge of sustainability in the cultural sector.

Fiona Sanderson has a particularly personal connection to The Kenton, having attended its children’s theatre group before embarking on a successful career in television and film.

The theatre’s Treasurer, Tony Sanderson, is a chartered accountant with considerable commercial and charitable sector experience, while Kathryn Siegel brings a background in film, arts education and fundraising, with a particular interest in making the arts accessible to the local community.

Completing the Board is Suzanne Yeates, Festival Programme Director at Henley Festival, whose experience spans more than 25 years in arts programming, education and youth theatre.

Protecting the past, investing in the future

Together, the trustees work closely with the theatre’s leadership team, helping guide its strategic direction, oversee financial sustainability and support its long-term development.

Their contribution is especially important as The Kenton continues to balance the responsibility of maintaining a historic building with its ambition to present an exciting and varied programme of live entertainment and create opportunities for future generations through Kenton Youth.

Trustees’ Week is a national celebration recognising the contribution of nearly one million trustees across the UK, highlighting the vital role volunteers play in helping charities thrive.

For The Kenton, it is an opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to seven individuals whose commitment, experience and enthusiasm help ensure Henley’s much-loved theatre continues to flourish.

As The Kenton enters its 222nd year, its trustees are helping ensure this extraordinary theatre remains part of Henley’s cultural life for generations to come.

Find out more about The Kenton’s trustees and the people behind the theatre at thekenton.org.uk.