Hedda Beeby is preparing to take her bow after working as joint director at the Oxford Playhouse for the past 12 years.

She has worked in partnership with Tish Francis since the theatre reopened in 199 after a four-year closure.

Hedda Beeby, left, with Tish Francis

Hedda will be joining the Ambassador Theatre Group as group general manager at the end of the month, leaving Tish to head the Oxford Playhouse as sole director.

Playhouse chairman, Sir Claus Moser said: "The Playhouse has flourished under Hedda and Tish's partnership. We will greatly miss Hedda, but wish her every success."

**Picture: Richard Cave