About Local Theatre Touring Alliance
Who we are
The Local Theatre Touring Alliance is a collaborative initiative aimed at improving the sustainability, diversity, and resilience of theatres in the UK’s towns and smaller cities. We are not a membership organisation — we work by bringing people and ideas together to tackle shared challenges.
Our Purpose
Secure the future of local theatres
Foster collaboration across the touring ecosystem
Champion innovative touring and business models
Advocate for supportive cultural policies
Rebuild and grow theatre audiences
Our Values
Trust: We commit to open and honest dialogue.
Transparency: We share information and decisions openly.
Collaboration: We work together to create long-term solutions.
Respect: We value everyone’s contribution.
our board
Laura Elmes
Carolyn Forsyth
Carolyn Forsyth
Laura is a theatre producer working across musicals and comedy, with a focus on bold work that resonates beyond the stage. During the pandemic, she founded and ran the UK’s largest drive-in cinema and theatre, which became the country’s top-grossing cinema. Her work spans West End productions to Edinburgh Fringe shows, and she is passionate about supporting new talent, particularly LGBTQ+ and female-identifying creatives. Laura received a Stage One Bursary in 2018 and joined the Board of the League of Independent Producers in 2023.
Carolyn Forsyth
Carolyn Forsyth
Carolyn Forsyth
Carolyn is a Senior Producer and arts leader with experience across theatre, young people’s work, festivals, and UK and international touring. She has developed and delivered work in a wide range of settings, including outdoor and site-specific productions. Carolyn is a committed advocate for racial and social justice and is currently Executive Director and Joint CEO of Talawa, the UK’s leading Black theatre company. She is also a co-opted member of the UK Theatre Board.
Adam Knight
Adam Knight
Adam Knight
Adam is Chief Executive of Blackpool Grand Theatre, an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation and UK Theatre Award winner for Excellence in Arts Education. His career spans senior roles across major UK venues and international touring, alongside work as a performer and producer. He has led significant organisational and capital development, including securing £22.5m in government funding for regeneration in Crewe. Adam serves on several boards and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Katie Town
Adam Knight
Adam Knight
Katie is Executive Director of Theatre Royal Wakefield, where she has led a period of significant creative and organisational change since 2015, including a major capital extension. Previously General Manager of the National Theatre’s Learning Department, she began her career in law before moving into the arts, working at the Royal Opera House and Candoco Dance Company. Katie brings a strong focus on leadership, learning, and organisational development.