Three inspiring industry figures join Get Into Theatre’s board to help shape a more inclusive, accessible and empowered future for young people in theatre.

At Get Into Theatre, our mission has always been simple: to make theatre careers accessible to young people, no matter their background. We’re proud to announce three exciting new additions to our board of trustees who share this mission and bring a wealth of experience, vision, and passion to our work.

Joining the board are producer Zeynep Gunaydin, producer and director Karen Hebden, and marketing powerhouse Amanda Lewis. Together, they represent the diverse and dynamic theatre industry we champion - and they’re here to help ensure the next generation thrives.

Zeynep Gunaydin: From beneficiary to Trustee

Producer Zeynep Gunaydin knows first-hand the power of accessible theatre pathways. Having secured her first industry role through Get Into Theatre, Zeynep is now giving back in a big way by joining the board.

‘We all hold the power to permanently shape the theatre sector's future. My goal is that young people are not only inspired to dream big in theatre but also empowered to make those dreams a reality.’

Zeynep works across theatre, dance, and community-led projects, with a focus on emerging artists, young people, and collaborative practice. Her credits include roles with Sadler’s Wells Theatre, The Little Angel Theatre, and Mousetrap Theatre Projects. She is currently producing with New Adventures (Doorstep Duets) and choreographer Vidya Patel, and is part of Stage One’s prestigious Bridge the Gap 2025–26 cohort.

Her unique blend of grassroots knowledge and professional producing insight brings invaluable perspective to the board.

Karen Hebden: Strategic vision and creative integrity

Karen Hebden is a director, writer and former Joint Artistic Director of Derby Playhouse, whose work has been seen on stages across the UK including Northern Stage, the Edinburgh Lyceum and The Rose, Kingston. A passionate advocate for access and inclusion, she brings deep experience in creative leadership, education and participation. Karen led curriculum development and professional training at RADA and continues to consult on sustainability and engagement projects nationwide.

A passionate supporter of emerging talent and equality, diversity and inclusion in theatre, Karen’s leadership combines artistic vision with operational rigour. Her current work includes contributing to national conversations on drama training and sector resilience. At Get Into Theatre, she continues to champion the development of future theatre-makers from all walks of life.

Amanda Lewis: Marketing leader and commercial innovator

With over two decades at the helm of one of the UK’s leading arts advertising agencies, Amanda Lewis is a powerhouse in the creative and commercial side of the sector. Formerly Managing Director and Board Director at AKA, Amanda helped grow the agency from five people to over 500 globally, delivering campaigns for clients including the Royal Opera House, ABBA Voyage, Tate, V&A, and more.

Amanda’s track record in shaping cultural engagement is unmatched - from post-Covid agency recovery to leading the commercial strategy for ABBA Voyage, and now as Managing Director Europe for Neon Global, where she recently launched Jurassic World: The Experience at Battersea Power Station and in Madrid.

She brings unrivalled experience in building audiences, developing talent, and scaling ambition. Her passion for nurturing future creative leaders makes her a perfect fit for Get Into Theatre’s mission.

‘I’m delighted to be involved with the Get Into Theatre team, supporting talent across the sector has always been a driving force in my work.’

With Zeynep, Karen and Amanda joining our board, Get Into Theatre is better placed than ever to deliver opportunities, guidance and inspiration to young people across the UK. Their expertise strengthens our ability to remove barriers and build an inclusive theatre sector where talent, not background, decides your path.

Want to explore your own theatre journey? Visit getintotheatre.org to find courses, opportunities, jobs and inspiration.