10 Questions with Kate Nolan: Celebrating 10 Years and a New Chapter
11/08/25
From theatre design intern in the UK to Managing Director of Theatre Consulting in the Americas — Kate Nolan’s journey at Charcoalblue is a story of talent, tenacity, and transformation. This summer, we’re proud to celebrate her well-earned promotion to Partner and mark a decade of her impact across our global team.
In this quick Q&A, Kate reflects on her path so far, what fuels her creativity, and the exciting next chapter ahead.
1. What brought you to Charcoalblue 10 years ago?
“Ten years ago (how did that happen!) I’d just graduated from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, where I studied performance design. I applied for an internship on Charcoalblue’s Intern Scheme with LIPA out of curiosity — I’d never heard of theatre consultancy before, and I saw it as a chance to expand my skills and experience. It also got me to London! I had no idea I’d discover a role that would grow into so much more than I ever expected.”
2. What’s changed the most since you joined?
“Where I live and work! I came to the New York studio in the fall of 2018, originally just for a few months to offer theatre design support to some growing projects. But two years turned into nearly seven — and counting!”
3. What’s been your proudest moment at Charcoalblue so far?
“Well, alongside growing Theatre Consulting in America, building on John Ownes’ legacy, a particular personal highlight has been helping to establish our Social Responsibility efforts. What started as a few passionate voices has become a core value and part of how we work. I’ve learned that meaningful change happens when you bring people with you and embed it into your culture. It’s been incredible to see that evolve — especially when Charcoalblue was a leading voice at last year’s NATEAC conference in New York, which focused on accessibility in the arts.”
Kate Nolan Presenting at the London Studio
Kate Nolan collaborating with one of our Senior Consultants, Peter Ruthven Hall, at the London Studio
Kate Nolan at our TCAM Collaboration Day
4. What’s been your biggest learning experience here?
“Learning how to lead while listening — i.e. stepping up is about stepping back, knowing when to speak up and when to make space for others. Charcoalblue has challenged and supported me in equal measure, and it’s through that balance that I’ve really grown and aim to support those around me to do the same.”
5. How does it feel to be made Partner — and what do you hope to bring to the role?
“It’s a mix of excitement, nerves, and pride. Mostly, I’m looking forward to bringing a fresh and passionate perspective to the Partnership and continuing to advocate for inclusive, joyful, and impactful design.”
6. What advice would you give to someone just starting out at Charcoalblue?
“Be curious. Be yourself. Be bold. There’s so much room here to grow, learn, and shape your own path — lean into that.”
7. Which project has stayed with you the most — and why?
“That’s so hard — there are so many! I started as a Theatre Designer at Charcoalblue before moving in to Management, and still design projects to this day. That joy will never go away, due to the range of scale, communities, clients and collaboratives. From working on the epic Aviva Studios in Manchester, and intimate theatre W!ld Rice in Singapore and now on US projects with scale and ambition like the American Repertory theatre and Obama Presidential Centre. Plus, the joy of working with communities in NYC itself like Peoples Theatre and National Black Theatre. For me it’s that no project/ venue or community is the same but working with passionate people continues to be inspiring and rewarding has given me the confidence to bring joy and fun into every project. It reminded me how important it is to share our passion for what we do no matter who it’s for.”
Aviva Studios, Manchester
W!ld Rice, Singapore
Obama Presidential Centre, Chicago, IL, USA
8. What inspires you outside of work?
“Of course, I’m constantly inspired by live events, but it goes beyond that — exhibitions, music, sport, nature… and just living in New York City! The energy and diversity of the city means you’re always surrounded by creativity and change. It keeps you on your toes.
But it goes without saying in work my team inspire me every day. They are all such talented, passionate and dedicated designers and problem solvers. It’s their desire for us to always be striving for the next thing and improving how we work that motivates me to keep growing our business.”
9. What’s one thing people might not know about you?
“I’m dyslexic, and I say that now with full pride. It hasn’t always been easy — especially at school — and it can still present challenges. But I’ve learned how to work with it and see it as a strength. It shapes how I think, design, and lead; which isn’t always the same way that others do it. I know that Charcoalblue welcomes and embraces the different approach and perspectives that I am bringing to the role of Partner. I’m passionate about supporting others with neurodiversity to recognise it as something that can empower you, not hold you back.”
10. Looking ahead, what are you most excited about in this new chapter?
“The future of live events and technology is incredibly exciting. With the expertise, creativity, and reach we have, we’re in a brilliant position to help design and deliver spaces where powerful stories can be told — stories that really serve and reflect their communities in fun, in function and in depth!”
Supporting the industry internationally since 2004
