THE NEW head of the borough's biggest theatre has said the venue's future lies in putting on more performances for young people and minority communities.

Robert Jackson, 42, took over as general manager and artistic director of Kenneth More Theatre in Oakfield Road, Ilford, earlier this year.

He replaced Vivyan Ellacott, who retired after more than 35 years at the helm.

The theatre, which regularly hosts performances by the Wanstead Players and Woodford Operatic and Dramatic Society (WOADS), opened in 1974.

Mr Jackson, of Downsfield Road in Walthamstow, said: “We are living in very interesting times financially for theatre, and we face a particular set of challenges.

“Perhaps the hardest work is all the boring stuff that goes on behind the scenes, like the negotiations that take place with visiting theatre companies.

“We have to be selective and more conservative in our choices. Later on in the new year there's a production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, which everyone is familiar with, and then nearer Easter we've got High School Musical, which should be a pretty safe bet.

“Among the most important things that the theatre needs to do, should always be doing, is speaking to the local community as a whole.

“One of the things we're trying to do is engage with young people. We're also looking at putting on productions for minority communities, such as for Diwali and other festivals.”

Mr Jackson is originally from Cannock in the West Midlands, and ran a drama company for young people in Harrow before moving to Kenneth More.

He said his job involved “ridiculously long hours” but that he was prepared to work hard to ensure a bright future for the theatre.

Mr Jackson added: “I never met Vivyan but of course I did my homework and I'm aware of the history of the theatre.

“But I think it's so important with something like this to keep looking forward rather than focusing on the past.

“I want the theatre to become the bedrock of the local community.”

Mr Jackson said this year's pantomime Sleeping Beauty was a big hit with audiences.

He said: “I think it's a very good production. It's very popular, everyone seems to be enjoying it and coming out very happy.

“Pantomime is so important because, for an awful lot of people, it's the only time they will go to the theatre each year.

“There's nothing wrong with that but it's up to us to have other things for them. For a lot of people who get the theatre bug, pantomime is the first thing they come and see.”

To find out more or to book tickets, visit www.kmtheatre.co.uk.