And finally...

JAMES TURNER

Executive Director • Greenwich Theatre Ltd

I’m 43, I’m married with 5 children and I’m originally from Lancashire. I came to London in 2000 to study at Rose Bruford College. I was a jobbing actor for 4 years before falling into the commercial world. I eventually found myself working in TV & Film but joined Greenwich Theatre as Executive Director in December 2024 as theatre was my first love and it was too good an opportunity to pass up!.

What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

My first job was when I was 12 in a fish and chip shop. I was paid £2 an hour! I was allowed to take home anything we didn’t sell so towards the end of my shift I would intentionally give smaller portions…

What would you do with your last pound? Put it on red!

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

Our biggest challenge is sustaining funding as public support for the arts declines, but it’s driving us to be more creative, collaborative, and resilient turning constraint into opportunity.

If you were Prime Minister, what would be your first decision?

If I were Prime Minister, I’d put the arts at the heart of national life — investing in creativity, education, and community, because a nation that values imagination thrives everywhere.

If you could do another job what would it be?

When I was a kid I wanted to join the Royal Navy. I’m probably too old now but I think that life would have suited me – I’m an early riser, enjoy physical exercise and I love to travel!

What book are you currently reading?

I’m currently reading ‘Into The Wild’ by John Krakaeur.

Into the Wild follows Christopher McCandless, who leaves everything behind to seek freedom in the Alaskan wilderness. It’s a moving, tragic story about adventure, idealism, and the cost of isolation.