David Johnston: Director/Producer/Manager

David has worked as a director, writer, producer, senior management and chief executive for more than 30 years in theatre for young people and arts in education.

He gained a degree in politics at Sheffield University and a PGCE at Bretton Hall in teaching drama. David has worked extensively and delivered workshops/lectures internationally in 16 different countries throughout the world.

He co-founded Perspectives Theatre Company (now New Perspectives), and was  employed as Artistic Director of Theatre Centre taking over from Brian Way (1976 - 1987).  The work that he commissioned during this period was ground breaking included Dave Holeman's "Peacemaker", "Frankie's Friends" and Nona Shepherds' "Getting Through".

After leaving Theatre Centre he founded the Take Off Children's Theatre Festival, has been a Visiting Associate to "Come Out" Festival, Adelaide, South Australia, has worked extensively for Nottinghamshire County Council running Nottingham Playhouse Roundabout, Chief Executive of Year of the Artist, and Head of Education for Birmingham Rep Theatre.

He has served on many committees including: Founding member SCYPT (Standing Conference of Young Peoples Theatre) and in 1985 was General Secretary of SCYPT, Greater London Arts - Drama Panel, was elected to be 1987-89 World Treasurer ASSITEJ of World Executive of ASSITEJ, Member of ACA (Action for Children's Arts) NCA (National Campaign), former Member East Midlands Regional Cultural Consortium, and the Regional Council for Arts Council England East Midlands 2001-2006.