Georgiana Robertson has retired from her roles at Blue Apple Theatre after almost seven years as chair and even longer as a trustee.

In her time as Chair, Georgiana has led Blue Apple Theatre as it has grown across Hampshire, toured both in the UK and overseas, moved into film and dance, and become ‘company in residence’ at the University of Winchester.

Georgiana was aware of Blue Apple when Jane Jessop set it up in 2005. Becoming a trustee fulfilled her belief in people following their dreams, stepping beyond expectation and that we should all be doing our bit to make those opportunities possible. Reflecting on Blue Apple’s impact, she said “Every performance 'gives' to the actors themselves but it enriches all of us, audience members and local community too. With Blue Apple’s two major shows per year, plus many other one-offs, there's so much celebration that punctuates each year. What makes Blue Apple special is the creative fun and endeavour, such a range of repertoire, ambition, skills and commitment from everyone, full of non-stop surprises, and it’s always uplifting!”

Speaking of her role as a trustee she added “You give your time and your skills to help a very worthwhile organisation, a charity that achieves far more than numbers alone might tell, where achievements can be seen and enjoyed on stage but where others can pass unnoticed - confidence, social skills, fitness, interaction, mutual support, dedication, stimulation, nimbleness of mind and body, learning. Many happy memories are locked in my mind! Some of my particular favourites are from 2012 in The Happy Prince with costumes that described a city... who would think that even possible? And in 2016 some extraordinary images of acrobats, an elephant and Parsee in Around the World in 80 Days. Being a trustee at Blue Apple has many, many rewards; it’s been a real privilege to have been chair of such a wonderful and exciting theatre company.”

“Trustees at Blue Apple have a fixed length of service, but since I’m still able to give my time, by staying involved I can remain useful; helping to raise money, seeking support and ensuring a smooth handover in continuing to build a strong organisation. To use a theatrical metaphor, I think of it rather like being essential backstage support to stage performances!”

Georgiana stepped down from her role as Chair on 21 October 2021 and former Vice Chair, Professor Ed Rochead, has stepped into the role of Chair for the next few months to spearhead the search for a permanent Chair. Commenting on Georgiana’s tenure as Chair he said "Countless additional adults with learning disabilities have had their quality of life, and their life chances, enhanced by Blue Apple thanks to Georgiana’s strategic vision and exemplary leadership and energy. She has already volunteered to continue supporting Blue Apple in her new capacity as Chair Emeritus. Everyone involved in Blue Apple wishes her well for a superb 'retirement' from this role."