After 25 years of dedicated service to Tobacco Factory Theatres, David Dewhurst has made the decision to step away from his role as Executive Director and begin a new chapter.
Over more than two decades, David has played a significant part in the life of TFT, especially in operations and finance; helping to guide the organisation through periods of both significant success and challenge, and contributing to its growth and development with loyalty, resilience, and a deep commitment to the work.
His long-standing knowledge of the organisation, care for its people, and commitment to its purpose have helped shape much of what TFT is today, and form an important part of its legacy.
Some of David’s significant contributions are overseeing the delivery of many of TFT’s capital projects, including the development and fit up of The Brewery Theatre in 2009, the installation of the iconic Factory Theatre seating in 2013 and the build of the new Spielman Theatre in 2018.
As Executive Director since 2019, with untiring commitment he has also helped guide the theatre through the challenges of the Covid-19 Pandemic, providing strong financial management, stability and growth when it was needed most.
David Says:
“When I joined a small team launching a theatre in a disused Tobacco Factory in 2001, I had no idea where the journey would take us. Over the past 25 years, an experiment to see if theatre would work in a non-conventional space has developed into one of the most important cultural venues in this city and well beyond. It’s been a pleasure to play a part in its history, and I’m delighted to leave it in a position of strength and with a wonderful team to drive it forwards. I am looking forward to taking a break to spend some time with my family before taking the next step in my career.”
Our Board of Trustees Say:
“The Board thanks David for his many years of contribution to Tobacco Factory Theatres. Throughout that time, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the organisation, helping to guide it through periods of growth, change, and challenge with dedication, professionalism, and care. We wish David and his family every happiness for the future, and thank him for everything he has given to Tobacco Factory Theatres”
As he takes a well-deserved break to spend some time with his family, we want to acknowledge both the significance of this and the contribution he has made over so many years.
Posted on 03 June 2026
