THE CHAIRMAN of Worcester Theatres Board is bowing out after 24 years.
John ‘Muff’ Murfin will retire in early 2026. He has been a valued member of the Worcester Theatres Board, serving in numerous roles including trustee, and most recently as chairman alongside chief executive officer Sarah-Jane Morgan.
Over the past six and a half years, Sarah-Jane and John have formed a close bond during significant challenges such as the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis.
During this time, Worcester Theatres has flourished thanks to their partnership and their dedication to making the arts accessible and affordable for everyone in Worcester.
John retires after a distinguished career spanning both the theatre and music industries, and as a passionate advocate for the arts he has inspired and motivated the team throughout the decades, now leaving Worcester Theatres in its strongest position in its history.
John said: “I have never known 24 years to pass so quickly. The last six and a half years working with Sarah-Jane have been a wonderful experience – it has been fantastic to watch the theatre grow, and to leave a business that is financially successful is every chairman’s dream. I will never forget Sarah-Jane and her wonderful staff, and there has to be a big thank you to all the dedicated volunteers, without whom the theatre could not exist.”
Sarah Jane added: “Muff has been a wonderful chairman to work so closely with, he has always been a great advocate for the organisation, willing to support us in seeking out opportunities to enable us to advance our mission.
“He is everyone’s chairman. As he retires from what has been a significant commitment to Worcester Theatres spanning more than two decades we all thank him for his great contribution during this time. I am so proud of all we have achieved together for Worcester Theatres over the past six and a half years, and I look forward to continuing this work knowing how proud Muff will continue to be.”
John has chosen the 60th anniversary year of the Swan Theatre to retire from his role, and updates regarding the new chairman of Worcester Theatres will be announced in early 2026.
