In a private ceremony last week at Windsor Castle, Former CEO Adrian Vinken was presented with his CBE for services to the theatre by HRH King Charles.

Adrian was the CEO of Theatre Royal Plymouth for 31 years, stepping down in 2022 shortly after being awarded his CBE in the New Year's Honours list.

Mr Vinken was awarded an OBE in 2006 for his leadership of the cultural and creative sector in the South West, and in 2018 was appointed as Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the County of Devon.

Adrian said: “It’s embarrassing to receive such a prestigious award simply for having the good fortune to enjoy a long rewarding career in a vibrant city like Plymouth.

"At heart, this award is really a recognition of the many great achievements of the Theatre Royal and Plymouth’s rich cultural scene over the past couple of decades.

"Our family had a wonderful and surprisingly intimate day at Windsor.

"It felt particularly fitting for the King to make the presentation given I was also lucky enough to receive my OBE personally from the late Queen Elizabeth in 2006.”

James Mackenzie-Blackman, Chief Executive and Executive Director of Theatre Royal Plymouth (January 2022 – present) said: “Adrian’s contribution to TRP’s success is without question and it’s a great honour to honour his legacy by following in his footsteps. During Adrian’s leadership of TRP he demonstrated the vital role culture can play in the life of thriving communities and a thriving city like Plymouth.”

All the staff at Theatre Royal Plymouth send Adrian their warmest congratulations for such highly deserved recognition of a career that brought great joy to Adrian.

If you'd like to learn more about Adrian's career and his time at Theatre Royal there is a special podcast called 'Curtain Call' Where Adrian looks back at his more than 30-year tenure as CEO. Listen Here.