Rumours of disharmony as chief executive resigns

DUNDEE REP: Nick Parr has resigned with immediate effect

The chief executive of Dundee Rep has resigned amidst reports of internal disharmony.

Nick Parr stepped down with immediate effect at the start of the week.

A spokesperson for The Rep confirmed: “Nick Parr has left his role as chief executive of Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre Ltd to pursue other opportunities.

“Andrew Panton, Dundee Rep’s artistic director and Fleur Darkin, artistic director at the Scottish Dance Theatre have been appointed as interim joint chief executives.”

Ed Troughton, chairman of the theatre’s board of trustees, said: “We would like to thank Nick for his hard work and we wish him all the best.”

The change comes as reports emerge of disharmony within the Rep over perceived cuts to production staff.

Staff have reportedly claimed the Rep has moved towards a less creative outlook and is prioritising a more managerial stance.

Dundee Rep published its first annual report in January.

Between 2015 and 2016, the theatre reported a turnover of £1.764 million, an increase from the previous £1.501m, and received £2.928m in grants.

The Rep’s audience numbers increased by 17% to 76,624 during the same time.

At the time, Mr Parr hailed the levels of teamwork within the Rep.

He said: “I have been blessed with a supportive team who have embraced the need for change and a motivated and committed board of directors who have helped me update the company’s governing principles, refresh the name of the organisation and recruit exciting new directors with a breadth of skill and personal backgrounds.”

In September, the opening night of popular Scottish play The Steamie had to be delayed after theatre staff encountered a “technical issue”.

The reason for the delay was not revealed, but it is understood the theatre’s stage was damaged by an earlier production.

jmilligan@thecourier.co.uk

Picture: Kim Cessford. Nick Parr, chief executive at the Rep, resigned earlier this week.