We’d like to wish a warm, Hippodrome Theatre welcome to Peter Evans, who joins our Senior Management Team as Commercial Director this week.

A senior leader with over 30 years’ experience in running large commercial businesses ranging from regional and West End theatres to multi-functional venues, Peter’s previous roles include Operations Director (North) for Ambassador Theatre Group, Divisional Manager for Live Nation and Trustee of Manchester Jazz Festival and The Empire Theatre, Sunderland.

Read on to find out more about what inspired Peter to join the team and what he’s most excited about seeing at Birmingham Hippodrome this Autumn.

How long have you worked at the Hippodrome?

This is officially my second week. So everything is still very new.

What made you want to work here?

The Hippodrome’s reputation as an outstanding venue is well known across the country and also the warm welcome from the employees I have met over the years while visiting here. Promoters have always said such great things about the venue. I also love the programming and potential.

How would you describe your job?

My job is a new position for the venue so it will be developing every day. My key focus is to look at what we are currently doing and how we may be able to make any improvements. My job is also about supporting people to run their businesses as effectively as possible on a day-to-day basis.

How would you describe a typical working day?

At present it lots of learning. Taking time to listen to the team on how things work, why they work that way and understanding the culture of the venue. I am doing lots of reading and analysing data to understand the key business.

What’s the favourite part of your job?

Meeting the people and finding out about the business. I like to learn something new every day. Having said that, I still get a fantastic buzz when the lights go down in the auditorium, the hair on the back of my neck starts to stand on end and the wave of anticipation from the audience kicks in as the show begins.

What’s your favourite production in general?

I have seen so many so if I am honest I don’t have one. I have moments in shows that trigger great memories like the expressions on the audience faces when they first see the elephant in The Lion King or the whole audience singing and dancing together on a sold out Saturday night of Mamma Mia. Also the way the whole audience jump them laugh with the gun shots ring around the theatre in Blood Brothers.

What are you most proud of achieving here?

Finding my way around and not getting too lost. It will be very different in 12 months I am sure.

Which show/event are you most looking forward to in the coming season.

I am a sucker for musicals so will really enjoy Wicked and Matilda but I do love Warhorse as it hold some great memories for me. Plus it is great to get to see a show that really touches you.