The CEO of The Lowry Theatre has been recognised in the New Year Honours list for her Services to art and the creative industry.

Julia Fawcett, who has led the iconic cultural venue since 2022, has been awarded a CBE in the Salford theatre’s 25th year.

Julia is responsible for ensuring the artistic and commercial success of the Centre and has played an instrumental role in growing one of the city’s most important cultural institutions.

By securing £1m of funding for artists of the future since 2009, hosting 18.5m visitors since 2000 and delivering £47.7m in gross value added across the UK, The Lowry Theatre has flourished under her stewardship.

She expressed her delight at being named on the prestigious honours list.

Julia said: “I am so proud of everything we have built together at The Lowry, here in Salford. Culture is always a collective effort, and I share this honour with our wonderful team, our brilliant artists, and the audiences and communities who inspire us every day.”

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett was full of praise for her hard work and hailed her inclusion on the honours list as “fantastic recognition for the cultural and creative leadership that Julia has provided over many years within our city and beyond.”

The Lowry Theatre.

He said: “The Lowry is a much-loved institution within our city, a force for good and a real beacon of hope in Salford, Greater Manchester and the North.

“The Lowry really does epitomise the power and impact of culturally-led regeneration and what can be catalysed through the arts, culture & creativity when local & central government work together.

“But more than that, The Lowry reminds us all that this magical place is a place first and foremost for the people!

“That’s why it continues to thrive as one of the most popular visitor attractions in all of the North. Julia and her team should be exceedingly proud of their many achievements over the years, as we all are!

“The recognition comes as The Lowry has been celebrating its 25th anniversary, and on the eve of Salford’s centenary year in 2026.

“It is great to see this recognition as we prepare and look ahead to celebrating Salford’s heritage, history, culture, inclusivity, diversity, and creativity over the next 12 months, and look forward to writing the next chapter in our city’s history.”

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