THE director of Bromsgrove's Artrix theatre has announced she will step down.

After two years working as artistic director of the Slideslow Drive venue, Hannah Phillips has decided to focus her time on family and her personal work as a theatre director and producer.

Hannah said: "I am sad to announce my resignation from Artrix. Throughout my time at Artrix, I have strived to make the organisation a welcoming and creative environment, with a vibrant and varied programme of high quality artistic and engagement for all.

"I am extremely proud of the achievements we have made as an organisation, including the innovative programme of events and developing the arts centre into an inclusive hub of creativity for the people of Bromsgrove and beyond.

"I look forward to seeing what’s in store for the organisation and its audiences.

"I have no doubt that Artrix has a very bright future.”

During her time as director, Hannah witnessed Artrix win the What's On Award for Best Venue in Worcestershire, and saw its audiences increase by more than 10,000 people per year.

She was instrumental in introducing free soft play for children in the Artrix foyer, a new menu at the cafe, partnership with the prestigious Rose Bruford College, and the Foundation in Acting course, which starts in September.

Hannah hopes to continue working with Artrix in coming months with her company of emerging artists Outspoken, whose recent productions have touched on topics like child sexual exploitation and mental and sexual health.

Dorothy Wilson, chair of the board of directors at Artrix, said: "We are very sorry indeed to see Hannah go.

"She has made a substantial contribution during her time here and we wish her well for the future.

"We look forward to working with Hannah in her new, independent capacity and hope she will continue to share with us at Artrix the development of her creative work, such as that she has led with Outspoken, with Bromsgrove’s young people and with audiences, schools and colleges."

Applications to fill Hannah's role as Artrix director open today. To apply, or to read the full job description, visit artrix.co.uk/jobs.